Partial Dentures info and FAQ
What is a Partial Denture?
A partial denture is a device for replacing missing natural teeth that can be permanent or removable. A partial denture can be made when one or more of your natural teeth remain in your upper or lower jaw and the partial denture can be anchored to them. This removable partial denture usually consists of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, which are connected by a metal framework. Your missing teeth are replaced by the teeth on the partial denture. The partial denture then attaches to your natural teeth with metal clasps.
Wearing Your Partial Denture
Your partial denture is made to fit your mouth easily. It should not be necessary to force the partial denture in place. Care should be taken when placing or removing your partial denture so that the clasps are not bent or broken.
It is very important that you wear your denture every day. If you don't wear your partial denture for an extended period of time, it may not fit as well as it should.
Over time, your mouth will change. The bone and gum areas may shrink or recede, causing the space between the jaws to change. Because your partial denture keeps its shape, adjustments will be needed to keep it fitting properly. Always consult your dentist rather than trying to fix the problem yourself. Never bend any part of the metal yourself. Doing so may weaken the metal structure.
How to Care for Your Partial Denture
1. Rinse your partial denture after every meal.
2. Clean your partial denture thoroughly at least once a day, using a toothbrush, tap water and toothpaste. Don't use alcohol, abrasive cleaners, bleaches, whiteners or boiling water to clean or soak your denture.
3. Partial dentures normally should be worn at night. Dentures can dry out and distort if left outside a moist environment. Keep your partial dentures immersed in tap water or denture cleaning solution whenever you are not wearing them.
IMPORTANT: Don't make adjustments or repairs yourself. Always contact your dentist immediately if there is any change in the comfort or fit of your partial denture.
Visit your dentist regularly, and follow his or her instructions. How do I wear a removable partial denture?
Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink plastic bases, which are connected by metal framework. Partial dentures attach to your natural teeth usually with metal clasps. Otherwise they are not much different than regular dentures. However you should see your dentist regularly to keep an eye on your natural teeth, to clean them, and to watch them if they become loose.
How long will it take to get used to wearing a denture?
For the first few weeks, your new partial denture may feel awkward or bulky. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it. Inserting and removing the denture will require some practice. Follow all instructions given by your dentist. Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.
How long should I wear the denture?
Your dentist will give you specific instructions about how long the denture should be worn and when it should be removed. Initially, you may be asked to wear your partial denture all the time. Although this may be temporarily uncomfortable, it is the quickest way to identify those denture parts that may need adjustment. If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. Your dentist will adjust the denture to fit more comfortably. After making adjustments, your dentist will probably recommend that you take the denture out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning.
Will it be difficult to eat with a partial denture?
Replacing missing teeth should make eating a more pleasant experience. Start out by eating soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on the denture. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You may want to avoid chewing gum while you adjust to the denture.
Will the denture change how I speak?
It can be difficult to speak clearly when you are missing teeth. Consequently, wearing a partial denture may help. If you find it difficult to pronounce certain words with your new denture, practice reading out loud. Repeat the words that give you trouble. With time, you will become accustomed to speaking properly with your denture. Don't get discouraged too quickly if you feel you are not speaking normally - after a week or so you will get used to your denture.
Will my denture need adjusting?
Over time, adjusting the denture may be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting in a loose-fitting denture. Dentures that do not fit properly should be adjusted by your dentist. Loose dentures can cause various problems, including sores or infections. See your dentist promptly if your denture becomes loose.
Must I do anything special to take care of my mouth?
Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Pay special attention to cleaning teeth that fit under the denture's metal clasps. Plaque that becomes trapped under the clasps will increase the risk of tooth decay.