The Difference Between Our Full And Partial Dentures

Our last blog talked about a great solution for minor tooth loss: dental bridges. But what if you have several large gaps in your smile? What if you’re missing most of your teeth? In these scenarios, you may need more than just a dental bridge. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how your Albuquerque, NM, dentist creates and places a full and partial set of dentures.

When to Talk About

Dentures

If you lose several of your natural teeth, this could leave large gaps in your smile, which makes eating your favorite foods difficult and could deprive your body of essential nutrients. You could also develop trouble speaking clearly, or simply feel embarrassed about your appearance. The strain on your bite balance and jaw joints due to missing teeth also increases the risk of jaw joint problems, like TMJ disorder and bruxism. To enjoy optimal oral health and better quality of life, then you need to talk about tooth replacement. While for those with between one and three lost teeth in a row dental bridges are a great option, people with more severe cases may benefit from dentures.

Partials

A partial addresses several gaps in your smile, even when they’re spread out across the arch. The prosthetic contains your pontics, or new teeth, set in a base made from acrylic. We design the base to look like gum tissue. We create the prosthetic based on detailed impressions and measurements we gather of your smile. Metal clasps will attach to the remaining natural teeth and secure your denture in place. They will need to be removed for soaking and cleaning, and may last between 5 and 10 years before requiring adjustment, as your jaw ridge will change shape over time and impact the fit.

Fulls

For people missing most of their teeth, a partial may not be enough to address their tooth loss. Instead, they may benefit from a full set of dentures. Again, we custom-make the denture to ensure a proper fit and a lifelike appearance. We craft a full row of natural-looking teeth and fit them into a base that looks like gum tissue. Natural suction will hold them in place, though some people also use a special adhesive for added security. Routine care, like soaking and cleaning, will help ensure a good fit for several years to come. If you have any questions about replacing your missing teeth with a solution that fits comfortably and looks natural, then contact our team today.

Do You Have Questions About Tooth Loss?

We want to make sure you continue to enjoy your best possible smile, by replacing your missing teeth using lifelike dental prosthetics. For more information on our prosthetic options, then schedule a consultation with us by calling Snow Park Dental in Albuquerque, NM, today at (505) 596-4479.

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