Partial dentures are used to replace missing teeth in an arch. A partial denture can be on one side of the mouth or around the mouth, it depends on the teeth that need to be replaced & the teeth that are still present. There are three types of partials as well.

The first is a temporary partial denture. These are generally used when patients may need a tooth out & need something to fill the space until it heals. They are also used during healing after an implant is placed. These types of partials are not “functional” in sense. They are mostly for aesthetics & cannot tolerate the forces of chewing over time. They sometimes have metal prongs to help hold onto the teeth.

The second type of partial denture is a cast metal partial. These are functional partials, but must be made after healing. They have metal clasps that fit around the existing teeth to help them slide into place. For these types of partials, sometimes teeth may need to be prepared by a dentist to support them with crowns or fillings. The remaining teeth must be able to support the load of the missing teeth. This type of partial can sometimes have teeth added to it & can be adjusted relatively easily. For difficult bites, sometimes the biting surface can be made in metal. Some patients do not like this type of partial because it can show metal.

The third type of partial denture is called a flexible partial denture. These are also functional offering a full range of chewing. These are generally a little less strain on the remaining teeth due to being supported on the tissue. These partials are nice because they have no metal showing, they have plastic like clasps that fit over the teeth. The downside to these partials is that they are difficult to adjust, if they break, generally a new partial needs to be made at Gulfside Dental, a tooth cannot be added to this partial in a permanent sense.

Proper Denture Care

Denture Cleansers - If your dentures are of the removable partial variety, there are a number of ways to maintain your set to keep them sparkling clean and free of stains and food debris.

Store bought denture cleaners can be recommended by one of our dentists, denture cleaners are used to inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the dentures. Denture cleansers come in a variety of forms and can be pastes, gels, creams, or solutions that kill germs and protect your health. Always look for the ADA seal when purchasing denture cleanser.

Everyday Denture Care – Don’t drop your dentures. When cleaning or otherwise handling your dentures, be sure to have a soft surface for them to land on. A sink or bowl of water works well too.

Over the counter toothpaste not specifically formulated to clean dentures can also be harmful to your dentures. It is often too harsh for the plastics involved and should be avoided. Toothpaste formulated for dentures are easy to find, and one of our dentists can recommend you some.

Household cleaners are almost always too abrasive and harsh to clean your dentures. Not to mention they’re unsafe for human consumption! However, hand soap or a mild dishwashing liquid, when handled properly are both acceptable ways to clean your dentures.

Regular toothbrushes are another over the counter item that are often unacceptable for dentures. Hard to medium bristled brushes can damage the dentures. Not only will hard bristles damage the dentures, but the toothbrushes aren’t designed to properly clean dentures at all. Look for toothbrushes that have been designed to clean dentures. Gentle brushing is key to maintaining your dentures integrity. Brushing your dentures too hard while cleaning, can bend the delicate metal or plastic pieces on them.

Questions about Dentures? Gulfside Dental Can Help!

It is important to always thoroughly clean dentures before placing them in your mouth. For any questions, concerns, or dental care don’t hesitate to call Gulfside Dental, the preferred Naples dentist, at (239) 774-3017