Partial Denturesin Swansea, IL

Experience the Versatility of Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are a versatile and affordable solution for individuals who have lost some of their teeth but still retain several healthy ones. These dental appliances are designed to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth, restoring both functionality and aesthetics.. At Corner Stone Dental, our Swansea, IL, dentist, Dr. Randall E. Wilson offers partial dentures to maintain the alignment of remaining teeth but also improve speech and chewing efficiency, contributing significantly to overall oral health and confidence.

If you’re interested in partial dentures, contact our Swansea dental office by calling (618) 236-0501.

What Are Removable Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are removable dental prosthetics designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of a base made of either acrylic or a metal framework, which is colored to match the patient’s gums, and denture teeth attached to the base. Partial removable dentures can be attached to the remaining teeth using clasps, which help to keep the denture in place.

Benefits of Partial Dentures

Partial dentures offer patients several benefits, including:

• Aesthetics: Removable partial dentures help restore a more natural-looking smile by replacing missing teeth.
• Functionality: Partial dentures improve the individual’s ability to chew food properly, aiding digestion and nutritional absorption. They also utilize the remaining natural teeth to support the appliance, preventing them from shifting. They also restore the ability to speak more clearly, especially if the missing teeth previously affected pronunciation.
• Facial Support: Teeth provide support to the facial muscles. Missing teeth can lead to sagging of the facial muscles, making an individual appear older. A removable partial denture provides necessary support, maintaining the natural shape of the face.
• Affordable: In many cases, partial dentures can be more affordable than other tooth replacement options like dental implants or fixed bridges.

The Partial Denture Process

Receiving partial dentures is a non-invasive process. You can expect the following:

1. Consultation and Exam: You’ll first start with an initial consultation and exam at Corner Stone Dental. Dr. Wilson will evaluate your oral health to determine if partial dentures suit your needs. If all your teeth are missing, complete dentures may be recommended instead. Our skilled team may also take dental X-rays or impressions of your teeth to create a model of your mouth.
2. Preparation: If necessary, we may need to prepare your remaining teeth for partial dentures. This may include reshaping them or filling in cavities.
3. Trial Fitting: Our Swansea dentist will create trial dentures made of wax or plastic. This allows you to see how the denture will fit and feel in your mouth. Adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable fit if needed.
4. Final Fitting: Your finalized denture will be created after the trial one is approved. It may take a few weeks for the partial denture to be made. When it’s ready, our dentist will fit the dentures into your mouth, making any final adjustments.
5. Follow-Up: Dr. Wilson will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that your dentures are fitting right and not causing you any problems.

How to Care for Partial Dentures 

Proper care not only keeps your partial dentures looking and feeling fresh but also supports overall oral health. We recommend you do the following:

• Handle With Care: Always hold your dentures gently to avoid dropping them. Using a folded towel or basin filled with water while cleaning can act as a cushion in case they slip.
• Rinse After Eating: After meals, remove and rinse the dentures to get rid of any food particles.
• Brush Daily: Use a soft denture brush to clean every surface of the denture daily. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it might be too abrasive.
• Use a Denture Cleaner: Opt for non-abrasive denture cleaners. Avoid using bleach-containing products, as they can weaken the dentures and alter their color. Always ensure that the product you choose is compatible with your type of denture. Denture cleansers are also recommended for nighttime storage to remove plaque and stains and disinfect them.
• Keep Them Moist: Most removable partial dentures need moisture to maintain their shape. When not in use, place them in a denture-soaking solution or plain water.
• Avoid Chewing Gum: Chewing gum can cause discomfort and affect the fit of your dentures. It is best to avoid chewing gum while wearing your dentures.
• Regular Dental Visits: Just like your natural teeth, dentures require professional maintenance. Visit our Swansea dental office at least twice a year for professional cleanings and to check for any adjustments or repairs.

Partial Dentures Candidacy for Missing Teeth

Factors to consider when determining candidacy for partial dentures include:

• Overall oral health: Candidates for partial dentures should have good oral health and healthy gums. If gum disease or other oral health issues are present, they should be addressed before considering partial denture treatment.
• Number of missing teeth: Partial dentures are designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Replacing missing teeth is crucial for maintaining appearance, dental health, and function. If a person has lost a significant number of teeth, full dentures or implant-supported dentures may be a better option.
• Remaining teeth: There must be enough healthy remaining teeth to support the partial denture. The remaining teeth must also be strong enough to withstand the pressure of the dental restoration.
• Jawbone density: The jawbone must have sufficient density to support the partial denture. If the jawbone has deteriorated significantly, bone grafting or other procedures may be necessary before partial dentures can be considered.
• Patient’s ability to maintain oral hygiene: Partial dentures require proper cleaning and maintenance to prevent decay and gum disease. Patients must be able to maintain good oral hygiene practices to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of their partial dentures.

To see if partial dentures are right for your oral health needs, contact our Swansea dentist today to schedule a consultation.

Partial Denture Cost

While costs for dentures vary from patient to patient, partial dentures typically cost between $1,000 to $2,000. The following factors will influence how much your partial dentures will cost:

• Location: For example, dental care might be more expensive in urban areas compared to rural ones.
• Material: There are different types of materials used for partial dentures, such as acrylic, metal, flexible (like Valplast), or a combination. Metal frameworks are usually more expensive than acrylic ones. An acrylic partial denture is often more affordable and can provide a natural look. Costs can vary based on additional options and patient location.
• Dentist’s Experience and Reputation: A well-known dentist with a lot of experience may charge more than someone just starting.
• Complexity of the Case: If the case is more complex and requires more adjustments or additional procedures, the cost may increase.
• Additional Treatments: Sometimes additional treatments or procedures, like tooth extractions or fillings, are needed in conjunction with the partial denture. This can add to the total cost.
• Dental Insurance: If you have dental insurance, it may cover some or all of the cost of partial dentures. Check with your provider for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Transform Your Smile with Partial Dentures

At Corner Stone Dental, partial dentures offer a practical and effective solution for those looking to restore their smile and improve their oral health. With their customizable fit and natural appearance, they provide both functional and aesthetic benefits that can significantly enhance your quality of life. If you are considering partial dentures or have questions about your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental professional. 

Schedule a consultation today by calling (618) 236-0501 to explore how partial dentures can help you regain confidence and enjoy a healthier, more complete smile.