What is a Partial Denture? Everett, WA When you lose teeth, your entire life is affected. Sections of missing teeth can affect your ability to properly chew and digest your food, which can lead to malnutrition. Your speech may be altered, making it more difficult for others to understand you. Adjacent healthy teeth can shift from their natural positions, throwing off your bite. This can lead to uneven tooth wear and jaw pain. Your risk for developing oral health issues, such as gum disease, increases. At Cooley Smiles, we can restore sections of missing teeth with partial dentures.What are Partial Dentures?When you have sections of missing teeth, and the rest of your remaining teeth in the same arch are perfectly healthy, there is no need to extract them. Partial dentures provide a way to replace your missing teeth while leaving your healthy teeth in your mouth. Much like full dentures, partial dentures are a removable prosthesis that consists of acrylic resin teeth set in an acrylic, gum colored base. They are created from an impression of your mouth, which is often taken after any unhealthy teeth have been removed. The impression is then sent to our lab, where your partials are designed and fabricated. Today’s dental technology allows for a much more natural partial denture that is also more comfortable. How Partials WorkPartials work similarly to full dentures. The gum colored base (which is made to match the color of your natural gum tissue) is supported by your gums and held in place by suction. They are also equipped with metal clasps, which hook on to your natural teeth, providing further stabilization. Getting Used to Your New PartialsIt will take some time for you to get accustomed to your new partial dentures. They may feel a bit strange at first, but you should get used to them in just a few weeks. However, if they continue to feel odd, or painful, you should contact our office. There are a few things that you can do to help you get through your adjustment period. Eat soft foods, and cut them into pieces that can be easily managed. When you chew, do so on both sides of your mouth, which helps to keep the pressure even. Avoid eating anything sticky or chewy, as these can cause your partials to dislodge, which can then lead to the base rubbing against your gums causing painful sores. When placing your partials in your mouth, do not force them in, as this can damage the denture or bend the metal clasps. Caring for your PartialsCaring for your partial denture is similar to caring for a full denture. Before removing your denture, place a soft cloth on the counter, or fill the sink with water. This will provide a cushion, should you accidentally drop your denture. Brush your partials with a soft bristled toothbrush and denture paste. Avoid using toothpaste, which contains abrasives and can cause microscopic scratches on the surface of the acrylic resin teeth. When you are finished, leave your dentures to soak overnight in a denture cleaning solution. Before you go to bed, be sure to brush your natural teeth and your gums with a soft bristled brush. In the morning, rinse your dentures before setting them back in place. Benefits of PartialsPartial dentures have several benefits:
If you are missing several teeth in your mouth, but still have healthy teeth remaining, partial dentures may be the solution. Call Cooley Smiles at (425) 249-3509 to learn more and schedule your appointment today. |
Get in Touch!PHONE
(425) 249-3509 everett@cooleysmiles.com LOCATION 10627 19th Ave SE, Suite B Everett, WA 98208-5147 |
