Denture

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures can provide a big relief for those missing some teeth. Chewing food becomes easier, and speaking improves with practice. Your tongue and lips must adapt to resting against the removable piece of plastic. It might feel strange at first, but with time, most people adjust and speak more clearly and confidently.

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Missing teeth not only affect appearance but also the overall function of your mouth. Missing teeth can cause your bite to shift, placing extra stress on the teeth that are still intact. Dentures help restore balance in the mouth, preventing these problems from getting worse.

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1. You Need Time to Get Used to Them

Like a cast or hearing aid, partial dentures take time to adjust to. At first, they feel bulky and awkward. You should wear them for long periods to allow your mouth to adapt. In a few weeks, they will feel more natural. You will also need practice inserting and removing them smoothly.

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Surprisingly, some people never adjust to wearing partial dentures. Poor design or maintenance can lead to irritation or looseness. Some individuals dislike the foreign sensation of dentures in their mouths. Other issues, such as tongue size or speech interference, can also make it difficult to adapt.

If adjusting feels difficult, talk to your dentist about your concerns. They can make modifications to improve comfort, such as refining the fit or shape. Minor adjustments often make a big difference.

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2. If You Stop Wearing Them, They Might Not Fit.

If you don’t wear your partial dentures for a few weeks, they might no longer fit. Changes in tooth alignment can distort the shape of the dentures. If this happens, visit your dentist immediately. Avoid using force to press them back into place.

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At Delicate Dental, we recommend addressing issues such as gum disease, poor bite alignment, or recent dental work first. Do this before investing in new partial dentures. Your dentist will give you clear instructions about how long and how often you should wear them.

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You may take breaks from wearing your dentures. If so, try to keep them in for a few hours daily to maintain their fit. Consistency is key for long-term success with partial dentures.

3. Materials Vary, and They Can Break Without Proper Care.

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Partial dentures come in various materials. These include flexible plastics (Valplast®), cobalt-chromium, and acrylics. The teeth on partial dentures also differ, from inexpensive plastic to more durable ceramic or zirconia. Material choice directly affects cost.

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Since partial dentures are removable, careless handling can cause them to break. Popping them in or out too forcefully can damage clasps or teeth. Dropping them is another risk. Always clean your dentures over a soft surface, like a towel or a bowl of water, to prevent breakage.

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Proper care ensures longevity. Avoid biting them into place, as this can bend or damage the clasps. Treat them gently to avoid unnecessary repairs or replacements.

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Durable materials can extend the life of your dentures. However, consider whether you are prone to accidents or heavy wear. Discuss with your dentist which options offer the best durability for your lifestyle.

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4. Partial Denture Need Maintenance 

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Your partial dentures and natural teeth require regular maintenance. Your dentist should check the supporting teeth for signs of damage from the denture's pressure or movement.

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Poorly maintained dentures can cause gum sores. See your dentist for adjustments if this occurs. Stubborn stains may also require professional cleaning. Brush and soak your dentures daily to keep them clean.

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Brush dentures with a soft, non-abrasive denture cleanser. Toothpaste can scratch and damage the surface. Be thorough, especially on areas touching the gums. Gentle care prevents cracks and extends their lifespan.

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Regular visits allow your dentist to check that your partial dentures fit correctly and keep your mouth healthy. As your gums or teeth change over time, you may need some adjustments. Seeing your dentist every six months will keep everything in good shape.

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5. How long do partial denture last? 

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A properly cared denture can last you several years. However, it’s normal for dentures to gradually wear out in this time range due to wear and tear. Add in the fact that your gums can also change shape and size. Due to these factors, our office recommends replacing your dentures every several years.

Complete Dentures

A complete denture is a removable dental appliance that replaces all the teeth in either the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, along with the surrounding gum tissue. It’s designed for patients who have lost all their natural teeth in an arch.

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Here are 5 key things to know about complete dentures:

1.Types 

• Conventional complete denture: Made after all teeth have been removed and gums have healed (usually takes a few months).

• Immediate complete denture: Made in advance and placed immediately after tooth removal, so you’re never without teeth, but adjustments are often needed as gums heal.

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2. Material

Typically made from acrylic resin, sometimes reinforced with metal for strength, and artificial teeth made from acrylic or porcelain.

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3. Fit & Comfort 

They rely on suction, saliva, and the shape of your gums for retention. Lower dentures are often less stable than upper ones because of tongue movement and less surface area.

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4. Adaptation Period 

Speaking, chewing, and comfort improve over time. It may take a few weeks to months to adapt fully, and adjustments are common in the early stages.

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5. Maintenance 

Daily cleaning is essential to prevent stains, bad breath, and oral infections. Dentures should be removed at night to let gum tissues rest and to avoid fungal growth.