Replacing some of your teeth
A partial denture replaces one or more missing teeth and fits around the teeth you still have. It is removable, taken out for cleaning, and can be made for one gap or several. For many people it is a well-established way to help with chewing, speech and appearance without surgery, although it takes some getting used to and doesn’t feel the same as natural teeth.
Partial dentures are often a good option where there are several gaps, where the gaps are spread across the arch, or where a bridge or implant is not suitable. They can also be used as a temporary measure while a longer term plan is carried out.
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Why the design is important
A partial denture is supported partly by the gums and partly by the teeth that remain. Those remaining teeth take on work they were not doing before, which means the way the denture is designed has a direct effect on their health.
A well-designed partial denture spreads the load across several teeth, sits so it does not press on the gum where plaque collects, and is shaped so it can be cleaned easily. If the load is concentrated on a few teeth, or plaque collects against them, those teeth are at greater risk, which is why the design is planned carefully.
The specialist assessment focuses on deciding which teeth can carry the load, how the denture should be supported, and whether any preparation of those teeth is necessary first.
Types of partial denture
An acrylic denture is made entirely of denture base material with the teeth set into it. It is quicker and less involved to make, so it is often used as an immediate denture after extractions, or as a temporary while the mouth settles or a longer plan is completed.
A metal framework denture is built on a slim cast alloy base. It is thinner, stronger and generally more comfortable than an all-acrylic denture, but takes longer to make.
With either type, the clasps that hold the denture in place may be visible when you smile or talk, depending on where the supporting teeth are.
Which one suits you depends on how many teeth are missing, where they are, the condition of the remaining teeth, and how long the denture is intended to serve.
How a partial denture is made
Several appointments are required. Impressions or scans are taken, the design is planned around your remaining teeth, records are taken of how your teeth meet, and a try-in stage assesses the fit and appearance before the denture is finished. Metal framework dentures try in the framework separately so its fit can be confirmed before the teeth are added.
Some teeth may need preparation so the denture is supported properly. This can include minor reshaping of the tooth surface, which isn’t reversible, or sometimes a filling or crown first. Any preparation is planned in advance as part of the design.
Living with a partial denture
New dentures take a period of adjustment, and a few review appointments to fine-tune fit and comfort are generally required. It is normal for some people to settle quickly whilst others take several visits.
A partial denture makes it easier for plaque to collect on the teeth it touches, so daily cleaning of both the denture and your natural teeth is important to reduce the risk of decay and gum disease. It is advised to leave the denture out overnight so the tissues underneath get a rest. Regular check-ups with your dentist remain important for the teeth that support the denture.
Over time, the mouth changes and the denture may need adjustment or relining. If another tooth is lost, a partial denture can often be modified to replace it rather than being entirely remade. Your prosthodontist will explain what to expect for your particular denture and how it fits with your regular check-ups.
This page is general information and doesn’t replace an individual assessment. All dental treatment carries risks, which your prosthodontist will discuss with you.
Experience & ExpertisePatient Referrals
Patient referrals are always welcome, although they are not required. We work closely with referring dentists and provide care only for the stages requested. Clear reports are provided, and patients return to their general dentist for ongoing care.
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