Complete Your Smile with Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are a solution for patients who need to replace multiple missing teeth in their upper or lower jaws. These appliances consist of gum-colored acrylic and lifelike prosthetic teeth attached to a metal framework for stability. During your initial consultation at our Philadelphia, PA, office, Dr. Bruce J. Wilderman will explain your treatment options to help you make an informed decision.
Exploring Your Candidacy for Partial Dentures
The best candidates for partial dentures are those who are missing multiple teeth on one or both arches, but are otherwise in good oral health. The appliance traditionally uses specialized dental clasps to hook onto adjacent teeth for support. Patients who are missing all of their teeth on one or both arches will be better suited for full dentures.
The best candidates for partial dentures are those who are missing multiple teeth on one or both arches, but are otherwise in good oral health.
Anyone considering implant-supported partials must have enough jawbone tissue to support the posts. If you have suffered jawbone recession, tissue will need to be replaced with a bone graft before you can receive implants. During a consultation at our practice, Dr. Wilderman can help determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.
The Fabrication and Placement Process
Before receiving a partial denture, the gums and remaining teeth must be assessed to ensure they are healthy. Once any necessary restorative work has been completed, Dr. Wilderman will take impressions of your remaining teeth. These are then sent to our state-of-the-art dental lab, where the fabrication process will begin. Using durable acrylic and metal, your new appliance is created. In most cases, this process takes approximately two to four weeks.
Once your appliance has been created, it is shipped back to our office. At this point, we will schedule you for a second appointment. Dr. Wilderman will check to make certain that the denture provides a proper fit and make any necessary final adjustments.
Patients who opt for an implant-supported partial will require dental implant surgery, followed by a healing period of approximately three to six months. Once the implants have integrated with the jaw, the custom denture can be attached.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
Those who need to replace several missing teeth turn to partial dentures because they:
- Prevent shifting of adjacent teeth
- Prevent a hollowed or gaunt appearance
- Help prevent jaw issues, such as TMJ disorder
- Improve chewing and speaking ability
- Evenly distribute forces across your bite
- Can boost your confidence
- Can improve your overall quality of life
Book a Consultation
If you are missing several teeth on the upper arch, lower arch, or both, you may qualify for a partial denture. To schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options, contact us online or call our office at (215) 631-3085. Dr. Wilderman has over 30 years of experience in restorative dentistry, and has treated many satisfied patients. He can recommend an appropriate treatment plan to meet your needs.
