Share:

Tooth loss is a common problem among adults in the United States. There are a number of reasons why a person may experience tooth loss, including gum disease, oral cancer, injury, or years of wear and tear. Missing teeth can make it difficult to speak or eat and can even cause a person to look older. A single missing tooth is typically replaced by a dental implant or crown. However, if you are missing several teeth, your dentist may recommend full or partial dentures.

Dentures and partials are removable replacement teeth used by dentists as substitutes for missing natural teeth. While the two are similar in structure and design, there are certain differences. Continue reading to better understand the differences between dentures and partials.

Dentures

dentures and partialsDentures, or complete dentures, are entire rows of replacement teeth that are created to improve the quality of life of a patient who is missing all or most of their teeth. Separate dentures are constructed for the top and bottom rows of teeth to help facilitate natural movements. To create dentures, a dentist must first remove a patient’s remaining teeth to prep their mouth. In some cases, the dentures can be worn right away. In others, you’ll need to wait for your mouth to heal completely and the dentures to come back from the lab before you can wear them. 

Partials

Partial dentures are removable replacements used as substitutes for one or several missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. The replacement teeth in a partial are attached to a plastic pink base and held together by a metal framework or clasp. Partials are easily removed for cleaning and sleeping purposes and can make tasks such as chewing easier.

Which Do I Need?

Your dentist will make the final call in deciding between dentures and partials. However, as a general rule, if more than half of your teeth are missing, your dentist will recommend complete dentures. However, if you have just a few teeth missing in a row, they may advise you to get a partial denture.

 

If you are missing some or most of your teeth, call (334) 347-9564 to schedule an appointment with Enterprise Dental Associates. Located in Enterprise, AL, this dental office has been providing the community with general dentistry procedures for over 37 years. To learn more about dentures and partials or for information on their other services, visit their website today.

tracking