Dentures can be a wonderful tool to help restore the appearance of someone’s smile when they’re missing one or more teeth. Today, Charvet Dental Center will explore partial dentures vs. full dentures and which is right for you.
Partial Dentures vs. Full Dentures
We’re going to compare and contrast the qualities of both and hopefully make it easier to decide the best option going forward.
- Design:
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- Partial: Consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored base, which is often made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal. The base is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and can include attachments or claps to serve as anchors.
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- Full: The base is the same material and is a full arch used to replace one or both rows of teeth. Suction or adhesive can be used to keep them in place.
- Function:
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- Partial: Like full dentures, they serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They help restore the ability to chew food properly, maintain facial structure by supporting the lips and cheeks, and improve speech for patients with missing teeth.
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- Full: These serve the same purpose but can offer more dramatic results, as they’re replacing entire rows of teeth as opposed to just a few.
- Types:
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- Partial: There are different types of partial dentures, including traditional removable ones and implant-supported ones. The removable dentures can be taken out for cleaning and while sleeping, while implant-supported ones stay secured in place for enhanced stability and comfort.
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- Full: Likewise, there are two main types of full dentures: conventional and immediate. Conventional dentures are made after the remaining teeth have been removed and the gum tissues have healed, which can take a few weeks. Immediate dentures are made in advance of extraction and can be placed immediately, which allows patients to have teeth during the healing process.
- Adjustment Period:
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- Both: Either type of denture will take some adjusting to, especially when eating and speaking. Minor discomfort or soreness is common in the beginning but will subside over time as patients get used to their appliances.
- Care and Maintenance:
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- Both: Taking care of dentures is imperative to making them last a long time. For both types, patients should clean them daily by brushing them with a denture brush and soaking them in a denture cleaning solution. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial to ensure they fit properly and to address any issues that may arise along the way.
- Longevity:
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- Both: With proper care, partial and full dentures can last for several years before needing replacement or adjustment. However, factors such as changes in oral anatomy, natural wear and tear, and other lifestyle habits can impact the overall lifespan of both.
- Consultation and Customization:
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- Both: The process for partial and full dentures will involve an initial consultation with Dr. Charvet or Dr. Charvet Jr., who will assess the patient’s overall oral health and discuss treatment options. The dentures will be custom-made to ensure a precise fit and natural appearance.
FAQs
Here is some additional information that can be helpful about both types!
Q: Can you eat normally with full dentures?
Eating with dentures, especially full ones, can take some adjustment and practice. It’s good to start with softer foods and work your way back to harder foods as you become more accustomed to them.
Q: Can I wear my partial dentures all day?
It’s generally considered safe to do so, but taking them out at night is smart to give your gums and mouth a chance to rest and recover.
Q: Can I eat sticky or hard foods with dentures?
It’s always best to avoid hard or sticky foods or any others that might damage or dislodge your dentures.
Q: What should I do if my partial dentures feel loose?
If your partial dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, you can contact your dentist for an appointment, where we can make an adjustment. It’s critical to maintain a proper fit to prevent irritation and damage to your gums and remaining teeth.
Q: How often should I have my full dentures checked by a dentist?
It’s recommended to have your dentures checked by our dentists at least once a year to ensure they retain their fit and remain in good condition. If damage ever occurs, it’s important to contact us promptly.
Finding the Right Fit
Like with any dental appliance, you might be hesitant to begin the process of fabrication since it feels like such a commitment. But if you are someone missing teeth, we assure you that finding a solution is worth it. If you have any questions about this process, contact our Metairie office here.