Partial Dentures Weymouth MA
Partial dentures can restore your speech, assist chewing, and complete your smile. But before undergoing any type of dental treatment, you need to explore your options during a consultation. Here is some information about partial dentures to help you make an informed decision about your health and appearance.
Partial Denture Types and Materials
Partial dentures are available in a variety of forms. Although we will offer you the best recommendation, the ultimate choice is up to you. Some popular types of partial dentures include:
Acrylic
This type of denture helps replace teeth using a pink acrylic base that looks very much like natural gum tissue. The base is thick and somewhat bulky to provide strength. It is attached to your natural teeth using clasps.
One drawback of acrylic dentures is that the metal clasps are visible when you open your mouth, which may feel awkward. However, acrylic dentures are usually a temporary measure used until a permanent one is ready.
Cast Metal
This type of denture is composed of a rigid and extremely thin metal base that retains a set of acrylic teeth. As with acrylic partial dentures, metal clasps are used for attachment to nearby teeth.
Flexible Partial
This type is made from a lightweight, thin thermoplastic material that fits snugly over the gums. It does not involve the use of metal clasps and offers a high degree of comfort.
The clasps used in flexible partials are gum-colored and flexible. It will be hard for others to tell the difference between your partials and natural teeth.
One drawback to getting flexible partial dentures is that they are more difficult to repair or reline. In many cases, any damage to them will require the creation of an entirely new denture.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
- Retaining natural teeth
- Preventing teeth from shifting
- Restoring function
- Restoring your smile
What To Expect
After getting your new partials, you may find them to be somewhat bulky or awkward at first. It normally takes some time to get adjusted to them, and it may take you some practice to insert and remove them.
Your dentist may recommend that you wear your partials all of the time until you get completely used to them and are able to identify what needs adjusting. After your dentist makes these adjustments, you may return to removing them at bedtime.
Avoid forcing your partials into position by biting down on them, which risks bending or breaking the clasps.
During the initial adjustment period, it helps to eat only soft foods. Cut your food into small pieces, and keep the pressure even on your partials by chewing on both sides.