Partial Dentures
A Partial Denture Replaces Missing Teeth
You now have a partial denture to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. You should be able to chew more easily and with greater comfort. The partial will also help preserve your remaining teeth. Wearing a partial can be easy. And take good care of your partial to keep your mouth healthy and help your partial last.
Your Partial Denture
A Partial Denture is made up of one or more porcelain or plastic replacement teeth. Gum colored plastic attaches these teeth to a metal framework. The partial is removable. It is held in your mouth with either metal clasps or precision attachments (special clasps made to fit into crowns).
Adjusting to Your Partial
Your dentist can make sure your partial fits properly. Follow the instructions that your dentist gives you to help your mouth adjust. This may take a few weeks.
Getting the Best Fit
Several visits to the dentist may be needed to be sure the partial fits properly. Your partial is custom-made for your mouth. Even so, it may feel awkward for the first weeks while your mouth gets used to it.
Tips to Help During Adjustment
- At first, eat soft foods and foods that have been cut into small pieces. Once you’re used to eating with the partial, you can eat almost anything you like. However, avoid very sticky or hard foods.
- Practice reading out loud until you can talk comfortably with the partial in place.
- Practice putting the partial in and taking it out in front of a mirror. Never force it or bite down to try to get it into place.
Wearing Your Partial
Your dentist will recommend how long to wear the partial and when to remove it. At first, you might wear it all the time. Later on, you may be told to remove your partial at night to give your gums a rest.
Caring For Partial Dentures
Your partial denture needs good care. So do your gums and natural teeth. Proper care will help your partial last and keep your mouth healthy.
Keeping Your Partial Clean
- Rinse your partial after eating to remove bits of food. Brush at least once daily.
Brush your partial over a folded towel or sink full of water. That way, it won’t be damaged if you drop it.
Use a soft denture brush and mild liquid soap or denture toothpaste. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive. Never use bleach.
Clean carefully around clasps to be sure you remove all bacteria and food. Scrub your partial gently to avoid damaging it.
A few times a week, soak it in denture cleaner to help prevent staining and odor.
Keeping Your Mouth Clean
Your natural teeth and gums need good care, too. Clean your mouth of the bacteria and bits of food that lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth odor.
- Remove your partial and brush your teeth after each meal. Also brush your tongue.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
- See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Your natural teeth and gums need good care, too. Clean your mouth of the bacteria and bits of food that lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth odor.
- Remove your partial and brush your teeth after each meal. Also brush your tongue.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
- See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Keeping a Great Smile
See your dentist if your partial is loose, causes soreness, or is bent or broken in any way. Never make adjustments yourself. Take good care of your partial and it will keep you looking great for many years to come.