Partial Dentures
A partial denture is a removable appliance that replaces missing teeth while the patient has other remaining teeth. These remaining teeth act as the anchors for the removable appliance. Partial dentures may be one of three types:
- Simple Plastic Temporary Partial Denture – Used as an interim appliance during treatment; may all plastic or have wrought wire clasps to attach to natural teeth.
- Metal Clasp Partial Denture – A metal framework on which plastic or porcelain teeth are attached. May be worn as a permanent restoration, but will have a long-term negative effect on the teeth to which they attach.
- Precision or Semi-Precision Partial Denture – A sophisticated removable appliance that fits into boxes constructed into crowns or fixed bridges on the natural teeth. A more stable, longer lasting restoration and less harmful to existing teeth.
With the use of Dental Implants, fewer of these restorations are being used, but they can still be useful in certain instances. Please ask your doctor if a partial denture is an option for you.