Perfect smiles come at a price.

How much, you ask? Well, just over $140 billion, if you ask the American Dental Association (ADA).

A considerable portion of that money goes toward fixing or replacing teeth. Until we find a way to regrow teeth or tooth enamel, we’ll have to rely on dental solutions, such as crowns, implants, bridges, and dentures.

Speaking of dentures, did you know that if you still have some healthy teeth, your dentist can recommend a removable partial denture? Read on to learn more about partial dentures or partials to see if they’re the right option for you.

What Is A Removable Partial Denture?

Complete removable dentures are artificial replacement teeth that restore all the missing teeth in a patient’s mouth. Meanwhile, a partial denture requires some healthy teeth in the upper and lower parts of the mouth for support. While its primary function is to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile, it can also enhance the wearer’s speaking and chewing.

Having partials can also help your surrounding teeth, which could shift over time. Both complete and partial dentures are attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases. However, partials have clasps or connectors that attach to the patient’s natural teeth.

If you don’t like how clasps look because they make it obvious to others that you’re wearing a denture, you can ask for precision attachments. These cost more, though, so keep that in mind when considering your teeth replacement options.

Who Needs Partial Dentures?

Partials are an excellent option for those who have lost teeth because of injury, decay, tooth extraction, or natural aging. As long as you still have some healthy teeth, your dentist can construct partial dentures for you.

However, if your remaining teeth aren’t in good condition, your dentist may recommend extracting these and replacing them with complete dentures.

Some patients don’t do so well with a removable partial denture. The good news is you don’t have to remove dentures if you have permanent ones. These are called fixed partial dentures or dental bridges.

More On Partial Denture Types

Removable partials can be cast metal, flexible plastic, and acrylic. Cast metal partial dentures are the most common type, having a denture base made of a mixture of several metals. They’re a fantastic solution for those who want to wear dentures long-term because of their high degree of stability and resistance to plaque build-up.

For those who want more natural-looking dentures, flexible partials are good, but they’re not very durable. Once they get a crack, there’s no repairing them, so you’ll have to spend money again on replacement.

The last would be acrylic partials, which have an acrylic base. That means they’re not ideal for those who are allergic to acrylic. They’re also not a long-term solution and can be less comfortable to wear than cast metal partial dentures.

How Much Do Partials Cost?

You know what they say, the best dentures are the ones you can afford. Okay, no one says that, but of course, the cost is a significant deciding factor for dental patients since insurance doesn’t cover all dental procedures, including dentures.

Here’s what you can expect if you’re paying out of pocket. The more missing teeth you have, the more expensive your partials will cost. Pre- and aftercare (additional adjustments) will also mean extra expenses.

All in all, your total would be anywhere between $650 and $2,500. On the other hand, bridges can set you back at least $1,500 to $6,500.

Some Tips For Choosing The Right Partial Dentures

The first step is to talk to your dentist, especially about the benefits of modern dentures.

During your consultation, your dentist will note your mouth anatomy, remaining healthy teeth, and gum and palate health. It would be best if you also were honest about the outcomes you want to achieve.

If you’re seeing a new dentist, be sure to talk about allergies and your concerns about how dentures will fit, other options like dental implants, etc.

What To Expect

New partial dentures may feel awkward. Before you visit your dentist, remember that it may take some time before you get accustomed to your partials.

You should make an appointment asap, though, if your partial denture fits poorly. If you have to force it to get into the correct position, that’s a clear sign you need an adjustment. Don’t wait until the clasps break.

For the first few days or weeks, you may need to wear your dentures all the time. Be sure to check if there’s too much pressure in certain areas. Getting sores isn’t normal, so don’t try to bear the pain and see your dentist immediately.

As for eating and speaking, start with soft foods, and try chewing on both sides of your mouth. If you have some difficulty pronouncing certain words, it helps to read aloud until you can speak confidently with your partials.

Caring For Your Dentures. Quality dental treatment, cutting-edge general dentistry, and a pleasant atmosphere are all part of the services we offer at Dentist Eugene Oregon.

Partial and complete dentures need regular cleaning, but not with normal toothpaste. Use a denture cleaner or a mild dishwashing liquid. Anything that’s not labeled mild can be too abrasive.

When cleaning your dentures, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Remove food deposits and plaque to keep your partials from becoming permanently stained.

Another thing to remember is to soak your dentures in water or soaking solution at night to keep them moist. As for adjustments, it’s best to avoid DIY kits. Leave the repairs and adjustments to professionals.

Don’t use superglue to fix cracks, and don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for tips and advice on using dental adhesive.

Are You Considering The Best “Substitooth” For You?

A removable partial denture is one teeth replacement solution that could be right for you if your other teeth are healthy.

Fixed partial dentures are another option, but these are more expensive. Now, if you don’t feel dentures are fitting for you, you can ask your dentist about alternative solutions.

For more dental tips and advice, you may check our other posts. We also have health articles that might interest you, so don’t forget to browse our site.