Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are removable prosthetics worn to replace one or more missing teeth and fill gaps between the teeth. They are made of artificial teeth held in a base that mimics the color of gum tissue. Partial dentures (partials) are fastened to the remaining natural teeth using clasps. Partials are appropriate when your remaining teeth are healthy, and you are free from gum disease. They can improve your ability to chew comfortably and speak confidently.

Partial Denture Types and Materials

Cast Metal Partials

Cast metal partial dentures are the strongest partials and tend to be less bulky, with a superior fit. The metal framework supports high-quality acrylic denture teeth. These are easy to keep clean and are very hygienic.

Acrylic Partials

Acrylic partials are made entirely of acrylic and attach to your teeth and gums with metal clasps on either end. These tend to feel a bit bulkier at first but can be quickly adjusted to. They are less expensive than cast-metal partials and offer a natural look.

Flexible Partials

Flexible partial dentures use a soft, malleable plastic base to support acrylic artificial teeth. The flexible plastic can be color-matched to your gum tissue and looks extremely natural. Flexible partial dentures are very comfortable and tend to be easier for patients to adjust to.

A patient’s specific needs, anatomy, and personal preferences dictate the design of the partial denture. Every effort is made to construct a self-cleansing partial denture that preserves the remaining teeth and oral tissues.

Dr. Pinkas will design your partial denture so that the chewing forces are evenly distributed over the entire surface area 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 denture. Flexible partials are becoming more popular for their realistic appearance and comfort. Dr. Pinkas will consult with you to determine the appropriate partial for your situation.

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.

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.

Dr. Pinkas 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 denture. Flexible partials are becoming more popular for their realistic appearance and comfort. Dr. Pinkas.