When you’re a kid, losing a tooth usually means a visit from the Tooth Fairy. As an adult, missing teeth may lead to a host of dental issues. Aside from lowering self-esteem, it can also affect speech and nutrition. Fortunately, there are a variety of solutions available for replacing lost or damaged teeth. For some, a partial denture is the best option.

Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace a number of missing or damaged teeth. They consist of a gum colored base and replacement teeth, which are attached to a metal framework that holds the appliance in place. There are a few different types of Partial Dentures, each with their own pros and cons.

One type is a clasp denture, which stays in place by using thin metal clasps to hook onto adjacent natural teeth. This can cause pressure and strain on the remaining healthy teeth, so it’s important to see your dentist regularly for proper oral care. Another type is a precision partial denture, which uses internal attachments rather than clasps to connect to the crowns of existing teeth. This results in a more cosmetic and stable appliance, but it can be more expensive than a clasp model.

A third option is a flexible, thermoplastic partial denture that’s made of thin plastic with no visible metal clips. Although they are less costly than metal alternatives, their thin nature makes them prone to breaking. This can result in the need for bulkier, possibly less comfortable dentures.

The best type of partial denture is the type that fits and feels the most like your natural teeth. To accomplish this, your dentist will take several factors into account, including the palate of your mouth and its shape, the natural teeth you still have in place, and the look that you desire.

Once your dentist has determined that a partial denture is right for you, they’ll get to work designing the prosthetic. Typically, they’ll begin by taking custom impressions of your mouth and then creating a mold to help make the final appliance. After the design is complete, a try-in appointment will be scheduled to ensure that the denture fits and functions correctly.

Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for a portion of the cost of partial dentures. However, it’s important to keep in mind that most plans put a limit on how much total dental work they’ll cover in a year. If you need extensive dental work, this limit may not apply. Nevertheless, even with the limitations placed on dental insurance, a partial denture is an affordable way to replace a missing or damaged tooth. If you’re interested in learning more about this tried and true tooth replacement solution, schedule an appointment with your local dentist today. They’ll be able to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of various options so you can choose the best one for your needs.