For patients who have lost multiple teeth in a row, a dental bridge is one of the most commonly recommended treatments. But what if your lost teeth are not all adjacent to one another? You may benefit from a partial denture. This elegant and effective tooth replacement solution is able to replace multiple teeth throughout a dental arch with a single prosthetic.
A partial denture is a single prosthetic that replaces multiple teeth in either the upper or lower dental arch. You can think of it sort of like a puzzle piece that fits in exactly where it is needed. A traditional partial denture remains secure in the mouth via small clasps or attachments, which may be made out of metal or acrylic. An implant-retained partial denture is different. Instead of using clasps to attach it to the remaining natural teeth, it is anchored in the jawbone via prosthetic tooth roots.
The process for designing a partial denture begins when your dentist carefully evaluates your oral health. If they determine that you are a candidate for partial dentures, they will get to work on designing your prosthetic. Your new teeth will be created based on detailed impressions of your existing dentition, all with the goal of creating a functional, comfortable, and durable final product. If you opt for implant-retained partial dentures, a minimally invasive implant placement surgery will be part of your treatment process.
The benefits of traditional partial dentures include:
The benefits of implant-retained partial dentures are even greater. They tend to be much sturdier and more aesthetically pleasing than their traditional counterparts. The dental implants even help to fortify the jawbone and prevent the deterioration that is a natural consequence of tooth loss. They are strong enough to stand up to virtually any food, including raw vegetables and tough meats.
The cost of traditional partial dentures depends on how many teeth you need to replace and the materials used to make the prosthetic. Their relatively low price makes them accessible for patients of most income levels. The cost of implant-retained partial dentures is higher, but because they have the potential to last for a lifetime, they may actually offer a better value.
Regardless of which type of tooth replacement you choose, our team will help you explore your payment options. We are happy to accept most types of insurance, and we work with CareCredit to help patients take advantage of low-interest financing.
Would you like to learn more about partial dentures and how they may benefit you? Contact our team today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with a restorative dentist.