Whether it’s due to tooth decay, or age, a partial denture is designed to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and restore the functionality and appearance of your smile. Your dentist will determine the best type of denture for your needs before they take impressions of your mouth and assist you throughout the process to ensure an accurate fit.
So keep reading to find out how you can make sure your dentures are as comfortable as possible.
Benefits of a Partial Denture
A partial denture consists of artificial teeth made of materials that resemble natural teeth, like porcelain or acrylic. These teeth are custom-made to match your existing teeth’ size, shape, and color.
The partial denture framework is designed to fit in your mouth and provide support for the replacement teeth. It is made of a metal alloy, such as cobalt-chromium, or a lightweight acrylic material.
The partial denture may have metal clasps that grip the adjacent natural teeth, helping hold the denture in place. Precision attachments or dental implants can be used for a more discreet and stable fit.
Once you receive your partial denture, your dentist will make the initial adjustments to ensure it fits. This may involve trimming or adjusting the clasps and other components of the denture. But ultimately, it’s up to you to ensure your partial dentures fit comfortably.
Partial dentures have various benefits and differ from full dentures or implants. Some benefits include:
- Restoring optimal eating and speaking functionality
- Preserve the alignment of existing teeth by preventing them from shifting into the gaps
- Improvement of your smile and overall facial appearance
- Providing support to the facial structures, preventing sagging and a hollow appearance
- Offering a removable option for replacing missing teeth
It is common for first-time wearers of partial dentures to experience discomfort and even soreness. This usually improves over time and with the help of your dentist as needed.
Follow Instructions
Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for and wear your partial denture. Following these instructions carefully is important to ensure longevity and comfort while wearing the denture. This may include wearing the denture only for a limited time each day or removing it at night.
If you order dentures online, you have to make sure you follow the instructions carefully. The impression kits only work if you use them as intended.
Regular Check-ups
Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist are needed to monitor the fit of your partial denture. Over time, changes in your oral structure may require adjustments to maintain comfort and functionality. Your dentist will evaluate the fit and make modifications as needed.
If you experience any of the following signs, you need to visit your dentist urgently.
- Continued discomfort and pain with sore and irritated areas or gum inflammation
- You have difficulty eating and chewing
- Your dentures slip or feel loose when you eat, talk, or even move your mouth
- If you hear clicking sounds when you talk or eat
- If your speech is affected and you notice you slur words or cannot pronounce certain sounds
- Bad breath or a persistent odor in your mouth
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean your partial denture regularly using a denture brush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaning and bleaching products that can damage or weaken the dentures. Dentures can be fragile and must be handled with care to ensure they are not damaged during cleaning.
Regular cleaning is needed to prevent plaque buildup, odors, and infections, the same as with natural teeth.
Good oral hygiene is vital to prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. Brush your natural teeth, gums, and tongue at least twice a day, and floss daily. A healthy oral environment can contribute to a comfortable fit for your partial denture.
Avoid DIY Adjustments
It’s essential to resist the temptation to adjust your denture by yourself, as it can lead to damage. If you experience any discomfort or notice changes in the fit, consult your dentist for professional adjustments.
Denture Adhesives
While it may not be necessary for all wearers of partial dentures, the use of an additional method of securing dentures for first-time users may improve overall comfort levels.
Dental adhesives are non-toxic materials and are applied to the gums and dentures to hold them in place. There are several products available to choose from, and they come in a powder and a cream form.
You can buy these products at your local drug or grocery store. Do research and speak to your dentist or store assistants to help you choose a product that will work for you.
Eating Habits
Eating with dentures may need practice, but there are some changes you can incorporate to ease into this. This might be frustrating but try and be patient with yourself. Your natural teeth transmit signals to your brain about how hard or soft to chew food that partial dentures lack.
Consider the following to help you adjust better to eating with the new partial denture.
- Try softer foods like eggs, fish, vegetables, etc
- Start with smaller bite-size pieces of food
- Be careful of food such as peanuts, hard candies, tougher meat cuts, and even popcorn
Consider Partial Dentures
It can take some time to get used to a partial denture. Even though it’s custom-made to fit your mouth, there’s still an adjustment period. So be patient and try to get the best denture fit possible.
If you’re looking to buy dentures online, contact us today. We can make your custom dentures or partial dentures by mail faster and for less!
Purchase full dentures online.
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