Partial dentures are one of the very best ways to replace missing or damaged teeth, restoring your smile by filling in the gap caused by one or more missing teeth. Not only do partial dentures help restore your smile, but they also help you eat normally and keep your remaining teeth healthy and strong. There are a number of different partial denture options, and with so many varieties to choose from it can be difficult to decide which kind of partial dentures are best for you. The team at University Dental in San Diego has years of experience with all types of partial dentures, and below we identify the five best kinds. To learn more, contact University Dental by calling (619) 582-4224.
Cast metal removable dentures are the most popular kind of partial dentures, providing patients with incredible replacement teeth fixed to a cast metal frame. The partial dentures are secured to the rest of your teeth with cast metal particles, providing a sturdy and efficient long-term tooth replacement. A cast metal removable partial denture can last for several years with a good cleaning and maintenance routine.
Acrylic removable partial dentures are also known as a “flipper” and are the least expensive partial denture option. Acrylic removable partial dentures are not as popular as cast metal removable partial dentures for a few reasons. First, these replacement teeth have a thick and bulky base that can be uncomfortable and aggravating. Second, acrylic removable partial dentures also attach to the surrounding teeth using visible metal clasps, allowing people to see the clasps when you laugh, talk, eat, or smile. These limitations usually make acrylic removable partial dentures a temporary solution that a dentist will recommend while a more long-lasting solution is made, some individuals use a flipper for several years.
Flexible partial dentures allow you to have comfortable replacement teeth that look and feel just like normal teeth. Flexible partial dentures are fastened using a very thin plastic, fitting into the natural spaces between your teeth. While flexible partial dentures are also considered a short-term solution, some patients have comfortably worn them for many years.
A fixed bridge differs from the three previous kinds of partial dentures, as a fixed bridge remains in your mouth and is not removed. If you have one or two missing teeth but the rest of your teeth are very healthy, a fixed partial bridge may be your best option. A fixed bridge has a crown at each end, with replacement teeth between the two crowns, giving you realistic-looking replacement teeth that you brush and floss just like any other tooth. While a fixed bridge is a popular option to replace missing teeth, there is the downside that you must grind down your healthy teeth surrounding the missing tooth, making them more susceptible to decay.
If you are missing more than one or two teeth, the gap may be too large for a fixed bridge. If that is the case, you might opt for an implant-support fixed bridge, a bridge option that does not require you to damage the healthy teeth surrounding your missing teeth. Instead of using your surrounding teeth to support the bridge, titanium implants act as the base for the bridge. While an implant-supported fixed bridge is the most expensive option, it is also a permanent solution to replace missing teeth.
If you are missing teeth, it can be difficult to know which partial denture option is best for you. That is why you need to consult an expert who will take your medical history, lifestyle, and dental history into account and suggest the best partial denture option for you. At University Dental, we provide expertise in all of the above types of partial dentures, offering amazing, durable replacement teeth. If you are interested in learning more, contact University Dental today to schedule a consultation. Call (619) 582-4224.
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