Partial Dentures
The final option for tooth replacement is the partial denture. A partial denture is a removable device (prosthesis) used to replace missing teeth.
The advantages of a partial denture are:
- The relative ease of the procedure for the patient as very little tooth preparation is needed and
- The comparatively low cost.
The disadvantages of a partial denture are many:
- The unnatural feel (it takes time to adjust to them) and some people have difficulty chewing and speaking with them.
- Partial dentures can have a natural appearance, but in some cases, an unflattering metal clasp is visible when talking or smiling.
- They will have to be periodically relined.
- Over time, as jaw bone recedes and the dentures may need to be remade as they have become excessively loose.
- Taste and enjoyment may be affected because the denture may cover taste buds on the roof of the mouth.
- Dentures may become painful as a slight shifting of position can create sore spots on the gums or extreme bone recession can expose portions major nerves.
- Some people find that dentures, no matter how well-crafted, cause them to gag.
As most of these potential problems usually occur later in life, they can challenge the ability to maintain good health, when eating a proper diet is essential.
Your choice of bridge, implant(s) or partial denture, will depend on many factors. The Macquarie Street Centre will outline the benefits as well as the limitations of each of these options before you decide on how to replace your missing teeth.