Today’s dentures are fit for royalty. That wasn’t always the case, however. Dentures weren’t fully developed until the 18th century, which is why Queen Elizabeth I had to resort to plugging up gaps in her teeth with cloth.

These days, whether you lose teeth to malnutrition, poor oral hygiene or trauma, a full or partial denture can fill the gaps. Complete dentures are used if you’re missing teeth on your upper (maxillary) or lower (mandibular) jaws. Partial dentures are used on patients who just have some missing teeth on either jaw.

Types of Partial Dentures

There are two types of partial dentures: fixed and removable. The health of the teeth surrounding the gap is one of the factors that determine what type of partial denture is prescribed for you.

A fixed partial denture is also called a dental implant bridge. A dental implant bridge permanently attaches artificial teeth directly to the jaw or under the gum tissue.

Removable partial dentures are also known as removable dental bridges. A removable dental bridge fills the gap between two healthy teeth and consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base. Removable partial dentures are connected by a metal framework that helps keep it in place.

Why Should You Wear Partial Dentures?

It’s true that partial dentures bring the beauty back to your smile. And that’s a big deal. But the other benefits of partial dentures are important, too.

Partial dentures also:

- Make it easier to chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Ease the stress of your bite
- Prevent teeth from shifting
- Decrease the risk of gum disease

How to Care for Partial Dentures

You don’t need “The Midas Touch™” to keep your partial dentures in tip-top shape. Partial dentures, like your natural teeth, just need thorough and regular brushing in order to remove food deposits and plaque. Unlike your natural teeth, partial dentures are very delicate and break easily, so it’s important to handle them with care.

Other tips on denture care:

- Stand over a folded towel or sink while cleaning your dentures.
- Use a brush specially designed for cleaning dentures.
- Avoid using household cleaners or bleach to clean your dentures.
- Soak your dentures in a denture cleanser when not wearing them.

If you’re unsure about what denture cleanser to use, ask your dentist. Ideally, the denture cleanser you choose should bear the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which confirms a product’s safety and effectiveness.

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