Partial dentures are one of the methods used to eliminate the problem of missing teeth in the mouth. The dental prostheses used in this technique have a hook structure and can be easily removed and reinserted by the patient. Since the prostheses are custom-made, they feature a special hook system that allows them to stay fixed in the mouth. This special system prevents the dental prosthesis from shifting during speaking or eating.
Compared to fixed prostheses, partial dentures with a hook structure can be considered a much more economical choice. Especially, the ability to be removed by the patient when needed allows the tissues to rest. Like all dental prostheses, these products are produced according to the patient’s mouth measurements. Therefore, they fit perfectly in the mouth and can be used very comfortably by the patient. We will answer all the questions that are frequently asked about them, especially addressing the adaptation process that patients wonder about. However, it would be helpful to briefly discuss these types of prostheses beforehand.
Types of Partial Dentures
Generally, partial denture types are classified into three different groups. These are:
- Partial dentures
- Full dentures
- Removable dentures
The dentist must decide which of these prosthesis types is most suitable for the patient. Considering the patient’s mouth structure and overall needs, the dentist will determine which prosthetic product is best suited.
If only a few teeth are missing in the mouth, partial dentures are usually the more appropriate choice. In partial dentures, hooks made of metal or acrylic material are attached to the existing teeth. This method preserves the existing teeth while simultaneously solving the patient’s missing tooth problem. They are are a commonly preferred method in society.
If the patient is missing all of their teeth, full dentures must be used. Since there are no teeth in the mouth, the hooks of the prostheses need to be attached to the gums. Patients may have concerns about the hooks being attached to the gums, but this process will not cause any harm to the gums. Therefore, this type of prosthesis can be comfortably chosen.
When are Partial Dentures Preferred?
First of all, they are only preferred in cases of missing teeth. Therefore, for this procedure to be done, some or all of the teeth in the mouth must have been lost. In addition, in some patients, the tooth roots may not be sufficient for implant treatment. In such cases, because implants cannot be applied, the missing tooth problem is solved with the application of partial dentures.
It should be noted that hook prosthesis systems are not a treatment option for every patient. For these prostheses to be used, the patient’s jaw structure and gum tissues must be suitable for the dentures. After the oral and dental examination performed by the dentist, it will be determined whether you are a suitable candidate for these prostheses. As a result, if there is a missing tooth problem and the patient is not a suitable candidate for implant application, partial dentures come into play. Due to their economic and comfortable features, partial dentures are often preferred by patients.
The Working Principle of Partial Dentures
The working principle of partial dentures can actually be described as quite simple. The hooks incorporated into the design of the prosthetic teeth ensure that the prosthesis stays fixed on the jaw. The fixation of the prosthesis prevents it from shifting, making it possible to use it very comfortably. Therefore, we can say that the working principle of partial dentures is not very complex. The sole purpose of the hook in these prostheses is to keep the prosthesis fixed in the mouth. It should also be added that these dentures have a system that allows them to be easily removed and reinserted by the patient. From this perspective, partial dentures can be considered one of the most convenient types of prostheses.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
Patients considering partial dentures often wonder about the advantages and benefits these prostheses offer. In general, the benefits of partial dentures can be listed as follows:
- They eliminate the problem of missing teeth in the mouth.
- They help patients overcome issues related to self-confidence, such as avoiding smiling due to missing teeth.
- They completely eliminate the problems with speaking and eating caused by missing teeth. Once the prostheses are installed, patients can speak and eat as they would with their natural teeth.
- The pain caused by missing teeth during eating disappears. This pain is usually caused by pressure applied to the soft gum tissues when chewing certain foods, but such problems do not occur when wearing partial dentures.
- Partial dentures are easy to clean and maintain, and can be done comfortably by the patient. No specific materials are required for cleaning these prostheses.
- When partial dentures are chosen, no damage is caused to the existing teeth in the mouth, and there is no need to extract these teeth.
How to Care for Partial Dentures?
To ensure that partial dentures can be used without any problems for a long time, they must be regularly cleaned and maintained. Patients should continue using a toothbrush and dental floss for oral hygiene. However, if full dentures are chosen (meaning there are no natural teeth in the mouth), the prostheses should be cleaned, and rinsing the mouth is also recommended. Special denture cleaning tablets or liquids can be used for regular cleaning.
If cleaning and maintenance are neglected, bad odors in the mouth will develop in a short time. Additionally, the lifespan of the prostheses may shorten, and deformities may occur in certain areas. Therefore, people using partial dentures must pay attention to the cleaning and maintenance of their prostheses. It is also advisable to regularly visit the dentist for check-ups and ensure that the prostheses are examined. If any problems occur with the prostheses, they can be replaced or repaired.
Things to Consider While Using Partial Dentures
Those who will use dentures for the first time may experience some difficulty when wearing partial dentures initially, but we should mention that patients typically adapt to these dentures quickly. Let’s provide a short list of things to pay attention to when using these prostheses:
- The dentures must be carefully and slowly put in and taken out. Rushing during the process may cause damage to the gum tissues.
- After removing the dentures, they must be thoroughly cleaned. Putting dirty dentures back into the mouth can cause bacteria accumulation, leading to bad breath.
- Never use hard objects to clean the dentures. Using hard objects may damage the dentures, so a soft-bristled toothbrush should be used to clean the dentures.
- Boiling water should never be used to clean dentures. Pouring boiling water or icy water on the dentures can damage the material.
- If the dentures are to be removed and left for a while, they should be placed in a glass of water. This is important because the dentures are prone to drying out, and soaking them in water prevents this.
- While cleaning the dentures, care should be taken not to apply excessive pressure to the hook system to avoid damaging or bending it.
Adaptation Process for Partial Dentures
One of the most common concerns among patients is the adaptation process for partial dentures. Some people, despite having dental problems, think they will never get used to dentures, and thus choose to endure the discomfort caused by missing teeth. Of course, when you first start wearing dentures, you may face some challenges, and an adaptation period may be necessary. However, this process is not as difficult as it seems, and it does not cause any pain. The key factor is the patient’s determination to get used to the dentures and to continue using the partial dentures despite the challenges in the first few days. This way, the adaptation to the dentures will be completed in a much shorter time.
However, frequently removing the dentures due to the difficulties faced will lengthen the adaptation period. Patients should continue using the dentures as prescribed by the dentist, and if they experience specific issues, they should inform the dentist. When the dentures are first installed, your dentist will likely ask you to come for a check-up and will inquire whether you are feeling any pain. If you feel any discomfort, such as sharp edges or protrusions in any part of the denture, you should inform your dentist.
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Cost of Partial Dentures
It is not possible to provide a precise cost for partial dentures. This is because there are many factors that influence the price, especially which type of prosthesis is chosen. The prices of full dentures and partial dentures are not the same. The quality of materials used in making the dentures is another factor that affects the cost. It is also important to remember that the choice of dental clinic and the experience of the dentist are factors that influence the price. However, in general, we can say that partial dentures are a much more economical option compared to implant treatments.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Partial Dentures
We are answering the most frequently asked questions by patients about partial dentures:
How Often Do Partial Dentures Need to Be Replaced?
The answer to this question can vary depending on the quality of the material used in making the dentures. However, in most cases, partial dentures can be used for 5 to 10 years. One of the key factors affecting the lifespan of dentures is whether their cleaning and maintenance are neglected. If cleaned regularly, they can last much longer.
Why are Partial Dentures Used?
The main reason for using partial dentures is the presence of missing teeth in the mouth. Patients may have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds while speaking and may experience various problems during eating due to missing teeth. Missing teeth can also lead to confidence issues for patients. To eliminate all these problems, the missing teeth in the mouth should be restored with dentures. This is where partial dentures come into play.
What is the Production Time for Partial Dentures?
First, it should be noted that these dentures are made in the laboratory according to the patient’s oral measurements. The production time can vary depending on the workload of the laboratory. However, in general, the production is completed within 1 or 2 weeks. Due to the need for taking impressions of the mouth, patients may need to visit the dentist several times. Your dentist will provide you with information regarding the production time and the number of appointments required.
Do Partial Dentures Affect My Ability to Speak or Eat?
Of course, you can easily speak and eat while wearing partial dentures. These two actions may be slightly challenging during the adaptation period, but after getting used to the dentures, you will be able to continue using them just like your natural teeth. Before eating, you should make sure that the dentures fit properly in your mouth. Additionally, keep in mind that hard-shelled foods that can damage natural teeth can also harm your dentures. Therefore, you should avoid behaviors such as biting or chewing hard-shelled foods with your dentures.
What Is the Lifespan of Partial Dentures?
Generally, the lifespan of partial dentures ranges from 5 to 10 years. However, the quality of the materials used in making the dentures plays a significant role in their longevity. If dentures are made from low-quality materials, they may start to deform after a few years. The most obvious sign of this is when the dentures begin to slide or certain parts begin to press against the tissues in the mouth. It should also be noted that dentures made from low-quality materials wear out and deteriorate quickly. Therefore, it is important to choose dentures made from high-quality materials.
Of course, patients need to regularly clean and maintain their dentures to benefit from a longer lifespan. For example, if the dentures are not placed in water when removed, they will dry out. This can cause various issues during use.
How Often Should I Clean My Partial Dentures?
You should clean your partial dentures at least twice a day. This is crucial for maintaining oral hygiene. Especially after eating, both the dentures and the inside of your mouth should be cleaned. This will help prevent bacterial buildup in your mouth.
Can I Sleep with Partial Dentures?
Typically, they are removed before bedtime and placed in water. This allows the tissues in the mouth to rest, and patients can have a more comfortable sleep. However, it should also be noted that sleeping with partial dentures will not harm you.
Can Partial Dentures Be Repaired if They Break?
Yes, partial dentures can often be repaired if they break. However, it is important to note that repair may not always be possible. If the clasp portions break, measurements will be taken from the mouth, and new clasps will be made and added to the dentures. However, if the dentures break into multiple pieces, it is usually better to remake them rather than attempting a repair.
What Should I Do If My Partial Dentures Are Causing Discomfort?
You should inform your dentist, and the piece of the partial dentures causing discomfort can be adjusted.
How Often Should I See My Dentist for Partial Dentures?
Sometimes, they may loosen due to reasons such as weight loss or bone resorption. In this case, you should visit your dentist without delay. Additionally, if you experience any discomfort with the tissues inside your mouth, you should promptly consult your dentist. If you have any other questions about partial dentures, feel free to write them in the comment section below.
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