What's the Difference Between Full and Partial Dentures?

Having a tooth replaced can be expensive and requires multiple visits to dentist’s offices. When it comes to the different tooth replacement options like bridges, implants, and dentures you may find yourself confused about which option is best.

Dentures are also an excellent option to consider when you want to replace missing teeth. Dentures are useful and comfortable, and give off a more realistic appearance than they did in the past. Currently, dentures compete against other teeth replacement options as convenient and effective and are preferred by many for their minimally invasive procedure.

So let's take a look at the two varieties of dentures available:

Complete Dentures

If you are missing all your teeth, you can choose a complete denture or a traditional full denture. You can get two varieties of complete dentures. They are conventional or immediate dentures. If you seek the replacement after the initial eight to 12 weeks of final tooth removal, you must prefer traditional dentures. This variety is minimally invasive, giving your gums time to heal.

Suppose you don’t want conventional complete dentures because you want immediate replacements. In that case, you can opt for the second variety because they are ready for use as required without any waiting time for the healing of your gums. People prefer immediate dentures because they don’t want to be without teeth, even for a limited period. While immediate dentures are a convenient option to close the gaps left by the missing teeth, they need frequent adjustments as your gums and mouth change shape when healing. The periodic adjustments are inconvenient, but in most cases, immediate dentures are merely a temporary solution.

Partial Dentures

If you have a few remaining teeth, you can consider having a removable partial denture. Removable dentures are held in place by a metal framework and clasps. If you prefer, you can have a partial fixed denture, also known as dental bridges.

Removable partial dentures remain in place, receiving support from your neighboring teeth on which the clasps or metal framework are fixed. However, if you have chosen a fixed partial denture, the appliance is held in place by crowns placed over the neighboring healthy teeth functioning as anchors for a prosthetic tooth or teeth to suspend in the gap. If you have some remaining teeth, the better option would be to choose a fixed partial denture because it helps preserve the shape of your dental structure by filling the space left blank in a permanent form.

Dentures and partials are both excellent options to consider when you need teeth replacements. If you can use them effectively, fixed partial dentures are a better option because they help retain the health of the remaining teeth and bones. You will require some time to get accustomed to both varieties as they feel unusual in your mouth. The longer you wear them, the more comfortable they become. Dentures and partials improve your chewing and speaking ability. Initially, you confront challenges when eating or speaking and may require practice with both tasks. However, as you become accustomed to the dental appliances, you begin feeling entirely comfortable.

Dentures have been around for over a century and have only recently been relegated to the background with the introduction of implants and bridges. However, present-day dentures are made from high-quality materials to provide a durable, resilient, and attractive replacement for missing teeth. Whether you choose full or partial dentures depends on your specific situation. You will do well to research all options available before deciding on any variety for replacing your missing teeth.

How much does it cost?

Dentures by far are the most affordable option for teeth replacements. Unlike bridges or implants that require approximately $ 2000 per tooth, you can have a complete denture at affordable prices without draining your finances. The new varieties for replacing missing teeth are undoubtedly better. Still, they haven’t in any way managed to take away the resilience and reputation built by dentures and confirmed by numerous patients for nearly a century. In reality, they have become better at providing an equal replacement solution for missing teeth similar to bridges or implants.

At Smiles For Health, we offer Zoom whitening and other cosmetic dentistry services so you can smile with confidence. Call today to schedule your appointment!