Regain Your Smile with a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

A partial denture for one missing tooth is an effective solution to this common oral health issue. Few things can be more embarrassing than a missing front tooth, but even a single tooth missing in the back of the mouth where it does not show can cause serious discomfort as well as a host of other problems. Replacing even a single tooth can also help to avoid health problems and lower the risk of infections and illnesses such as diabetes.

How is a partial denture different from a full set?

While the answer here seems obvious, there are some important differences. Dentists recommend full dentures for their patients who lose most or all of their natural teeth. Even if there are a few teeth remaining, there may be situations that call for their extraction in order to facilitate the placement of a full set.

A partial denture for one missing tooth or multiple missing teeth (also known simply as a "partial") is the recommended choice for people who retain most of their natural teeth. This is a removable prosthesis, usually made from an acrylic frame to which metal clasps are attached. This clasp is connected to the neighboring teeth, holding the partial denture in place. 

What is it like to get a partial denture?

When your dentist has determined that a partial denture is a good option for you, the first step is to take an impression of the jaw to which the prosthesis is to be fitted. The impression serves as the basis of a model that lab technicians use to create the denture.  As this may take a few weeks, the dentist may give you a "flipper," or temporary denture. Although not as comfortable as a fitted one, a flipper allows for normal mouth function while giving you the opportunity to get used to wearing an actual denture.

Rest assured that once your partial denture for one missing tooth has been fitted in place, nobody but your dentist will know it is not your real tooth. Dentures are made to look like the real thing, with the replacement tooth crafted to match the natural teeth in appearance and color.

There is a period of adjustment for wearing a denture, however. In the beginning, the prosthesis can feel uncomfortable, and things like eating and speaking may seem difficult. To adjust to speaking normally with the denture, practice reading a book aloud or singing to yourself.

It may take some time for your denture to settle into position and the surrounding nerves and ligaments need time to adapt — especially if you have been without a tooth for a while. If necessary, your dentist can prescribe an analgesic or an over-the-counter product. You may also need to return to your dentist periodically for alignments and adjustments.

Conclusion

The benefits of getting a partial denture goes beyond simply restoring an attractive smile and making it easier to chew and speak. Talk to a dentist about the benefits of this tooth-replacement option for you.

Request an appointment here: https://www.carolinasmilesdentist.com or call Carolina Smiles Family Dental at (828) 974-3326 for an appointment in our Brevard office.

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