Dentures can replace anything from a full set of teeth to an individual tooth. Partial dentures allow a single tooth, or several teeth to be replaced through one denture. Needless to say, a denture filling the gap of one tooth is nowhere near the size of a full denture and they can be almost as small and thin as you wish (within reason of course).
How do partial dentures work?
There are two main ways that partial dentures can work:
- They fit into the gap left behind from the missing natural tooth and rest on the gum
- Metal or acrylic clasps are used to support the denture by securing them around the natural teeth
The process for having this custom-made denture is the same as that for a full denture and it involves the same steps and appointments. Find out more about the denture process from start to finish.
What are the three main types of partial dentures?
There are over 4000 different designs for partial dentures, however these are separated into three key partial denture types.
1. Chrome partial dentures
Advantages
- Chrome partial dentures are the only type that passes exerted force through the roots of the remaining teeth and not the empty saddle area which could cause bone shrinkage
- There is minimal tongue interference, especially on lower dentures
- They are very strong
Disadvantages
- Metal clasps can sometimes be visible
- They can be expensive
2. Valplast flexible denture
Advantages
- Very comfortable
- Very popular
- Thin, lightweight and very strong
- This denture type has no clasps
Disadvantages
- Awkward to repair and make alterations too
- Can be expensive
3. Acrylic partials
Advantages
- Easy to repair and add more teeth too
- Clasps can be added if required
- Affordable denture option
Disadvantages
- Can offer insufficient support to other natural teeth
- Can be slightly bulky
- Can go loose after a short period of time and not easy to tighten
How are partial dentures made?
When getting partial dentures for a single tooth you will need a treatment plan made in conjunction with a dentist. Depending on your denturist they may provide the full service for you, or you may have to also visit your dentist. All these services can be provided under the one roof at our Nottingham clinic.
At Kevin Manners Denture Clinic we offer a FREE initial consultation with our Clinical Dental Technician(CDT) Kevin Manners at any of our clinics in Nottingham, Mansfield or Newark. During this appointment, we can discuss all of your options in detail and decide, along with our experts, which denture type and materials are best suited for you.
To learn more about the process and what to expect, please see our article or contact one of our experts.