What is the Difference Between Full and Partial Dentures?

Have you recently lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, tooth decay, or an injury? Dentures may be your solution as they will replace the missing teeth and help restore your smile. There are many forms of false teeth available, such as full and partial dentures.

What are Complete and Partial Dentures?

Dentures are removable devices used to replace all or some missing teeth and support the surrounding tissues. They are available in two versions – full and partial dentures.

Complete Dentures

Full dentures in Plano are used if you have all or more than half of your teeth missing. The complete dentures are further grouped into two: immediate and conventional dentures. An immediate denture is made in advance and positioned on the same dental visit. These dentures are used as a temporary measure as you wait for the conventional ones to be made. This is because as the gum heals, the bone will shrink, making the dentures loose. A conventional denture is ready for use after eight to 12 weeks following teeth removal.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used when you have a few missing teeth. The partial dentures are made with a metal framework that is used to anchor the dentures in place.

Implant-supported Denture

Implant-supported are also available for people with enough bone dentists. The dentures are supported by titanium screws that are surgically fixed on the jaw.

Process Involved in Dentures

Making the dentures takes a few weeks, several dental appointments, and is done in a few steps:

• Dental examination and assessment. Our dentist in Plano will first examine the teeth to determine the ideal dentures. For immediate dentures, the dentist will fit them immediately after the teeth extraction. Otherwise, you have to wait for the gums to heal for the dentures to be made.
• A series of dental impressions are taken. The dentist takes the measurement of the jaw and the spaces in between.
• A model of exact shape and position of dentures is also made, and the color and shape are assessed.
• The final cast is created, and adjustments made where necessary.

Tips to Maintain Dental Hygiene for Dentures

Partial and full dentures need proper care to keep them clean and looking their best as outlined below:

• Remove and rinse the dentures after eating with running water to remove food remains and other loose particles.
• Soak dentures overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist. Dry dentures are prone to bacterial accumulation and may lose their shape.
• Brush your dentures daily to remove accumulated dirt. Soak and brush them gently with a soft-bristled brush to remove plaque and other deposits.
• Handle dentures with care and do not bend or damage the plastic when cleaning.
• Rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them back.
• Clean your mouth after removing the dentures using a soft toothbrush to clean your teeth, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Remove denture adhesive from the gums if used.
• Consult a dentist near you immediately if you have a loose fit. Loose dentures may cause irritation, sores, and infection.

What to Expect After Wearing Dentures

After the dentures are fixed, there will be a few problems that may occur. The dentures may make you feel odd for several weeks. Also, expect minor irritation or soreness when you first wear the dentures. Saliva flow will increase when you start wearing dentures. Furthermore, eating with your new dentures will be uncomfortable, and you will need some practice. In the first few days, avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods. Instead, focus on soft foods cut into small pieces. Munch slowly using both sides of the mouth. Additionally, you may have difficulty pronouncing certain words. All these problems will diminish once your mouth adjusts.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have multiple missing teeth and in need of an affordable restorative dental treatment, dentures are an ideal solution. Visit SS Dental for an assessment of your teeth and gums. The dentist will also choose the right denture for you.