Full vs Partial Dentures

Full vs Partial Dentures
  • Full vs Partial Dentures

Full vs Partial Dentures: Which is Right for You?

For adults who are missing several teeth, dentures can be a great way to restore their smile, confidence, and functionality. Popular options available include full dentures and partial dentures. Both have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and it can be confusing to pick the right one for your situation. As your dentist in Pinellas Park, Florida, we are here to help you understand the difference between full vs partial dentures and guide you towards making the best decision.

Full Dentures

Full dentures are recommended for individuals with no remaining healthy teeth or those who need to have their remaining teeth extracted. A mold of your mouth is taken to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Full dentures typically consist of an acrylic base that sits on the gum line and a set of prosthetic teeth that resemble the natural teeth. They are removable, which makes it easy to clean and maintain them. Full dentures can enhance your appearance, help you eat and speak better, and prevent further tooth loss. However, adjusting to full dentures can be difficult for some people, and it may take time to get used to them.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are designed for individuals who have some missing teeth but still have some healthy teeth remaining. They are made of a combination of plastic or acrylic base and metal framework that clips onto the remaining teeth. Partial dentures can be a cost-effective option and offer advantages such as improving your speech and preventing further tooth decay. They are also removable, making it easier to clean and maintain. However, some people may find partial dentures less comfortable than full dentures, and they may need adjustments to ensure the right fit.

Factors to Consider

When deciding between full and partial dentures, it’s important to consider various factors, such as your budget, dental health, and lifestyle needs. Full dentures are typically more costly than partial dentures but offer a more permanent solution for severe tooth loss. Partial dentures are often covered by dental insurance, making them a more affordable option for some patients. In terms of dental health, full dentures may offer better protection against gum disease and tooth decay. Your dentist can advise you on the best option based on your lifestyle and care requirements.

Care and Maintenance

Both full and partial dentures require regular care and maintenance to keep them clean and functional. You should rinse your dentures with warm water after eating and brush them with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap to remove food particles and stains. Avoid using hot water, bleach, or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the acrylic or metal components. Store your dentures in a container filled with water or denture solution when you’re not wearing them. It’s also recommended to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and adjustments.

Contact Us Today!

In conclusion, choosing between full and partial dentures depends on various factors such as dental health, lifestyle needs, and budget. Both options can offer improved functionality, appearance, and confidence. Understanding the difference between the two and consulting with your dentist can help you make an informed decision that suits your needs best. At Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, we offer custom-made, high-quality dentures designed to fit your mouth and lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about our denture services. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with us to learn more about how we can restore your smile and confidence.

Dentures FAQ

dentures faq - pinellas park fl
  • Dentures FAQ

Denture FAQ: From Dentist in Pinellas Park, FL

I’m Interested In Dentures. Where Do I Start?

If you have some or all missing teeth, visit your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL. They will be the best person to discuss any of your oral health needs with. Dr. Wade and her team will be happy to access your smile for a denture consultation. During this time, you will find out if dentures are the right restorative dentistry option for you. You can also ask any questions you have or continue reading our Denture FAQ.

What Types of Dentures Are Available?

Dentures are a solution to replace all teeth or some teeth. Complete dentures are dentures that replace all of the teeth. Attaching these dentures to dental implants improves their stability and retention. Partial dentures are dentures that replace some but not all of the teeth. They are attached to the remaining teeth and also cover and rest on the gums and bone where the teeth are gone. Partial dentures can also be restored and stabilized by dental implants.

How Do I Take Care Of My Dentures?

Whitening: Because dentures are constructed of plastic, they cannot be whitened like natural teeth. To reduce discoloration, Dr. Wade urges patients to clean their dentures on a daily basis. Brushing your dentures with a denture brush or a soft toothbrush can keep them from becoming permanently discolored and will keep your mouth healthy. Brush on every surface. Pro tip: Do not use regular toothpaste. This is extremely harmful to your dentures. There are several denture cleaner products available at your local stores. You can soak them in a water-based cleaning solution overnight. 

What Happens If My Denture Breaks?

The best approach is to go back to your emergency dentist in Pinellas Park, FL. You’ll want to get your dentures fixed right away. Otherwise, it can be difficult to eat or talk. Dr. Wade may also have to adjust your dentures after they’ve been fixed. 

Can I Sleep While Wearing Dentures?

Yes, you can wear your dentures at night. However, it is recommended that you remove them. You should take your dentures out at night to allow your gums and bone to rest from the strain of the denture during the day. If you must wear dentures for social reasons or to keep your jaws from shutting too tightly, you should make time during the day to properly clean your mouth and dentures. Avoid wearing your dentures 24 hours a day unless you practice good dental care. It never hurts to ask your local dentist what they recommend.

What Can and Can’t I Eat With Dentures?

Most patients must learn how to properly utilize dentures, and as a result, it takes some time to get acclimated to them. You should be able to eat normally after a while, but it may take a little longer to get used to harder or stickier meals. Using a small quantity of denture glue may assist in holding the dentures in place. You can continue eating normally for the most part. We recommend staying away from extremely sticky foods. 

Chewing gum: No matter whatever kind of chewing gum you try, dentures and chewing gum do not usually go well together. Our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, explains that the gum often adheres to the acrylic part of the denture. Gum may break a seal on the dentures, causing them to loosen. Gum may become attached to the denture and harden and discolor over time.

Are Dentures Painful?

It is typical to suffer slight soreness when you initially get your new dentures. However, this will subside once your mouth adapts to them. The duration of the pain varies. It may take longer if you previously wore dentures and now have a new set. Similarly, if you had any natural teeth present that were extracted during the process of getting new dentures, the locations where the extractions were performed may be painful or uncomfortable for several weeks after the teeth were gone. It is essential that you see your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, on a regular basis to adjust your dentures as you heal.

If you have any further questions not covered in this denture FAQ, please contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry.