A partial denture is a removable appliance constructed by a dentist to replace missing teeth where a fixed alternative is neither practical nor feasible. Of the many different types of removable appliances available, listed below is a brief description of the most popular choices with a variety of aesthetic options, different levels of comfort physically and emotionally, varying lengths of durability, and requiring different maintenance procedures.
Conventional Partial Dentures
A conventional removable partial denture has a metal framework and metal clasps. The clasps hold the partial denture securely in place while allowing easy removal for cleaning.
Semi-Precision Partial Dentures
Semi-precision dentures are held in place by interlocking male/female attachments located on the dentures and on crowns that have been placed on the natural teeth that are being used for stabilization.
Overdenture
Overdentures are placed over healthy natural tooth roots or short remaining teeth that will require modification in height, root canal treatment and coverings similar to crowns. The portion of the denture that rests over the covered roots or teeth contains attachments that clip onto the individual coverings or to a framework that holds the denture securely in place.
Implant Overdenture
Fabrication of this denture involves several months of healing after surgical placement of an implant into the jawbone. When healing is complete, an attachment located on the denture in the area of the surgery fits securely over an extension screwed into the implant thereby maintaining denture support and stability.
Flexite Partial Dentures
Made of semi-translucent flexible nylon thermoplastic with no metal wire or clasps, these dentures allow the color of the patient's gum to show through. Flexite partials are virtually indestructible, rarely require adjusting and have clasps (made of the same material as the denture) that rest on the gum tissue instead of the teeth.
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