A removable partial denture is designed specifically to meet the needs of the patient and can replace one or more missing teeth. A natural appearance and speech clarity is restored along with the ability to eat more efficiently. At Aesthetic Smile Reconstruction, we only recommend partial denture solutions which will look and feel as natural as possible. What this means is the partial denture will emerge naturally without seams or obvious clasps in the aesthetic zone, otherwise we will advise the patient to seek an alternative to avoid an unnatural result.
Partial Denture Types and Materials
Partial dentures are created out of a metal and acrylic composition or completely out of acrylic. A patient’s specific needs and anatomy dictate the design of the partial denture and every effort is made to construct a self-cleansing partial denture that preserves the remaining teeth and oral tissues.
Charles Sutera, DMD will design your partial denture so that the chewing forces are evenly distributed over the entire surface are of the remaining teeth and soft tissues. Changes to your remaining teeth may be recommended to help equalize these forces.
Metal partials are generally preferred as they are structurally superior. They are thinner and more hygienic than an acrylic partial. Acrylic partials are typically used as a transitional or temporary partial. Charles Sutera, DMD will consult with you to determine the appropriate partial for your situation.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture may help limit movement of your existing natural teeth. They also allow you to better grind and chew food improving digestion.
Claspless Partial Dentures
Patients that are wearing existing partial dentures most often request a “claspless” solution. The patient is simply tired of having unaesthetic pink or metal clasps around their teeth. For these patients there are several aesthetic options. A patient may be a candidate for an advanced type of partial denture known as a precision attachment partial denture with composite facings. This type of denture will show no clasps, and the teeth will emerge naturally without showing seams of pink acrylic or metal clasps. Dr. Sutera may also be able to suggest options to completely avoid a partial by converting to aesthetic bridges or implant crowns.