Restore and sustain your stunning, healthy smile with long-lasting partial dentures
Today, many individuals who are missing several teeth can benefit from numerous options to fill those gaps in their smiles. Additionally, options for tooth replacement have come a long way. The modern partial dentures designed and placed at the office of Chase Patton, DDS in Columbia, Missouri, are made from advanced materials and by using exacting techniques. So, you end up with teeth that look, feel, and function indistinguishably from natural teeth that are healthy and not marred by signs of damage.
What are partial dentures?
As their name suggests, “partials” are appliances that can be used to rebuild a partially broken smile among those patients who still have healthy, remaining teeth. Depending on your needs, this appliance may be designed to fill in the gap left by just one or two teeth. Or, it can be designed to replace several missing teeth. The appliance itself is connected to and gets its support from other healthy teeth. So, your suitability for a partial and its specific design depends on factors such as the condition of the remaining teeth, how they fit together, and the location of those teeth.
How do partials compare to dental bridges?
The partial denture is an affordable alternative to the dental bridge. Bridges, too, rely on their neighboring teeth for support. They are also effective at replacing one tooth or a few consecutive missing teeth. However, the bridge is a “fixed” option. The replacement teeth are fused to a few dental crowns. When placed as a single unit on the neighboring anchor teeth, this dental bridge fills in the gap. To make room for the crowns, the anchor teeth that hold the bridge in place must be slightly reduced. Partial dentures are considered a “removable” prosthesis in that they are designed to slip in and out of the mouth. Bridges are generally non-removable and cemented onto the teeth closest to the gap.
If partial dentures are right for me, what can I expect at Chase Patton, DDS?
The process of getting your partial starts with us collecting as much information as we can about your teeth, mouth, and personal preferences. Our lab then uses this information to make your stunning and highly durable new teeth! As needed, it may also be recommended to crown the teeth that will support the denture. The partial will connect to these teeth through specialized clasps or other attachments, which we can discuss during your consultation.
Well in advance of receiving your denture, we will go over ways to care for your new teeth and advise on ways to effortlessly transition to life with your partial. As true partners in your oral health, our office in Columbia, MO, also ensures that the appliance is holding up well during routine appointments. When the time comes, we can discuss adjustments or repairs to the denture and its clasps/attachments.
Well in advance of receiving your denture, we will go over ways to care for your new teeth and advise on ways to effortlessly transition to life with your partial. As true partners in your oral health, our office in Columbia, MO, also ensures that the appliance is holding up well during routine appointments. When the time comes, we can discuss adjustments or repairs to the denture and its clasps/attachments.
Frequently ask questions about partial dentures
How many teeth can be replaced with a partial?
True to its name, these dentures are made for people who need partial tooth replacement. The right candidates for partials still have some of their teeth. They do not need denture alternatives that replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower dental arch. There is no set maximum for the number of teeth that may be replaced in this way; however, Dr. Patton will need to confirm that any remaining teeth are healthy enough to support the denture. If he finds that these teeth are decayed or damaged and cannot be preserved, conventional upper or lower dentures or even implant-supported dentures may be more appropriate. Other considerations include your commitment to oral care, where the missing teeth are located in your mouth, and the health and volume of bone in the jaw.
How do I adjust to partials?
We are always here to help! We’ll provide you with clear instructions to help you get used to wearing and caring for these dentures. It’s normal for the denture to feel a little strange in your mouth at first, especially if you have gone for a while without teeth in that/those area(s). It may take a little practice for you to insert and remove your partial. Be patient. Don’t try to force the denture into place by biting down, because this could damage the clasps. It also helps to start by cutting food into small pieces and avoiding overly sticky, chewy, or tough foods.
Do partials require different care than complete or full dentures?
While the products used and the cleaning and soaking techniques are similar, you should be particularly mindful of the clasps or attachments that connect the partial to your teeth. When brushing the denture with a soft-bristled brush and gentle denture cleaner, use a light touch to remove food particles without damaging the attachments.
Can I repair the denture on my own?
Should your denture become damaged, contact us right away. Do-it-yourself kits and OTC products can do more harm than good. They may even damage your partial beyond our ability to repair it. So, you should leave any repairs to the professionals. It’s also important to know that we get you into a healthy schedule or routine for follow-up visits. During these visits, Dr. Patton assesses the condition of all components of your denture. He can recommend adjustments and other steps as needed to ensure your denture remains comfortable and functional.
Do partials prevent bone loss?
Due to how partials and other traditional dentures are designed, the bone and gum ridges may gradually recede or shrink. This process of bone loss can result in a denture that no longer fits as well as it once did. A poorly fitting denture can lead to discomfort, sores, speech problems, and difficulty chewing. During routine visits, we can adjust the fit of your denture to ensure it conforms well to the surrounding tissues. If you are concerned about bone loss, Dr. Patton may also discuss alternatives that prevent this progressive condition. These alternatives include crowns, bridges, and dentures that are supported by dental implants.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Patton
Let’s start the process today! Call (573) 875-7040 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Patton.
Dr. Chase Patton is a highly skilled dentist passionate about improving patients' physical and mental health through comprehensive dental care. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, graduating Cum Laude from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Dr. Patton has advanced training in oral surgery and cosmetic dentistry, receiving accolades such as the American Academy of Orofacial Pain Award. His commitment to continued education at the prestigious Pankey Institute reflects his dedication to providing exceptional care with skill, expertise, and trustworthiness.