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Did you know the first dentures were designed by Etruscans from ancient Italy in 700 B.C.? Since then partial dentures have come a long way and thankfully, for millions of Canadians. They are more durable, flexible and hard to distinguish from natural teeth.

Understanding Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are custom-made to fit in line with the existing teeth and bridge the gaps where teeth are missing. A partial denture can restore the teeth’s functions and improve biting, chewing and speaking. Patients may require partial dentures for various reasons—accidents, oral health disease or neglected dental care can all cause missing teeth.

Types Of Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures can easily be removed to be cleaned, adjusted and fixed. Fixed partial dentures, on the other hand, are commonly known as dental bridges and are “fixed” to the remaining teeth via dental implants or crowns. Flexible partial dentures are similar to traditional removable dentures but are made with a flexible resin that offers a more comfortable fit. 

Key Benefits of Partial Dentures for Enhancing Dental Health

• Restoration of Function: One of the important benefits of partial dentures is that they restore the function of the teeth and mouth. Chewing and pronouncing words correctly can be problematic when numerous teeth are missing. 

• Improved Chewing and Digestion: Large gaps from missing teeth can cause difficulty chewing leading to problems with the proper digestion of foods. Partial dentures can help patients resume their regular eating habits. 

• Aesthetic Improvement: Partial dentures can improve a person’s self-confidence, especially if they feel shame or embarrassment due to missing teeth. This dental appliance can be customized to look and function like natural teeth.

• Prevention of Further Dental Issues: The customized fit of partial dentures will prevent the existing teeth from shifting or misaligning. These dental appliances can help reduce the risk of further complications, such as tooth decay or loss.
  
• Cost-Effectiveness: Treatments for missing teeth include dental implants or crowns which can be costly depending on the number of teeth missing. A partial denture is a cost-effective solution to restore their natural smile. 

• Maintaining Oral Health: Partial dentures are another proactive measure in maintaining good oral health throughout life even with the unwanted existence of large gaps or missing teeth. 

Navigating the Process of Getting Partial Dentures

• Initial Consultation: The first step in getting partial dentures is to schedule an initial consultation at a dental clinic for partial dentures at your local dental office. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth and discuss your options for replacing missing teeth. They may also take X-rays or impressions of your mouth to help create a treatment plan.

• Treatment Planning: After the initial consultation, your dentist will create a treatment plan that outlines the steps and procedures needed to get partial dentures. This plan will consider factors such as the number of missing teeth, the condition of your remaining teeth, and any other dental issues that need to be addressed.

• Tooth Preparation: If you have any damaged or decayed teeth that need to be removed before getting partial dentures, your dentist will perform tooth preparation procedures. This may include extractions or root canals to ensure that your mouth is healthy and ready for denture placement.

• Impressions and Measurements: An impression is moulded to capture every detail of your mouth. The shape and size of your gums, teeth, gaps and jawline are imprinted onto a putty-like material to be sent to a dental lab. 

• Denture Fabrication: The model creation, tooth selection and construction of the denture base are done at a dental lab in based on the measurements and impressions submitted. Common materials used for the bases and artificial teeth are acrylic, porcelain and resin. 

• Fitting and Adjustments: Known as the “try-in appointment”, the partial denture will be fitted and adjusted to ensure the size, shape, and colour matches your needs. It may require more than one tri-in appointment to be sure everything fits properly. 

• Final Placement: The final appointment occurs two to three weeks after the “try-in” to ensure the fit of the device is secure and functional. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for and wear your dentures and may schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Your Dentures

Practical Tips for Caring for New Partial Denture Wearers

• Daily Cleaning Routine: The dentures should be removed nightly and cleaned. Clean them with a soft-to medium-bristled toothbrush and soak them in a gentle denture cleanser.

• Handling and Storage: As dentures can be susceptible to cracking or breakage if dropped handle the device with care and properly store it in a case when not in use. 

• Regular Check-Ups: Attend all follow-up and regular dental visits so that your partial dentures can be checked and re-fitted if need be. 

• Common Issues and Solutions: Within the first few weeks of use, there may be discomfort or irritation due to the fit of the partial dentures. Contact your dentist immediately if this occurs.

Ready to Smile Again? Visit Princeview Dental Clinic in Etobicoke 

At Princeview Dental Group, we understand the significance of having a smile that enhances your confidence and improves your oral health. We offer customized dental plans with partial and full dentures, Invisalign, teeth whitening and other oral treatments. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Janice Mummery and her team.