How do you wear a removable
partial denture?
Removable partial dentures usually consist of
replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, which are
connected by metal framework. Removable partial dentures attach to your
natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments.
Precision attachments are generally more esthetic than metal clasps and they
are nearly invisible. Crowns on your natural teeth may improve the fit of a
removable partial denture and they are usually required with attachments.
Dentures with precision attachments generally cost more than those with
metal clasps. Consult with your dentist to find out which type is right for
you.
How long will it take to get
used to wearing a partial denture?
For the first few weeks, your new partial
denture may feel awkward or bulky. However, your mouth will eventually
become accustomed to wearing it. Inserting and removing the denture will
require some practice. Follow all instructions given by your dentist. Your
denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial
denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.
How long should I wear the
partial denture?
We will give you specific instruction about
how long the partial denture should be worn and when it should be removed.
Initially, you may be asked to wear your partial denture all the time.
Although this may be temporarily uncomfortable, it is the quickest way to
identify those denture parts that may need adjustment. If the denture puts
too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. Your
dentist will adjust the denture to fit more comfortably. After making
adjustments, your dentist will probably recommend that you take the denture
out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning.
Will it be difficult to eat
with a partial denture?
Replacing missing teeth should make eating a
more pleasant experience. Start out by eating soft foods that are cut into
small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on the
denture. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You may want to
avoid chewing gum while you adjust to the denture.
Will the partial denture change
how I speak?
It can be difficult to speak clearly when you
are missing teeth. Consequently, wearing a partial denture may help. If you
find it difficult to pronounce certain words with your new denture, practice
reading out loud. Repeat the words that give you trouble. With time, you
will become accustomed to speaking properly with your denture.
How do I take care of my
partial denture?
Handling a partial denture requires care.
It's a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water just in
case you accidentally drop the denture. Brush the denture each day to remove
food deposits and plaque. Brushing your denture helps prevent the appliance
from becoming permanently stained. It's best to use a brush that is designed
for cleaning dentures. A denture brush has bristles that are arranged to fit
the shape of the denture. A regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also
acceptable. Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, which can damage the
denture.
We recommend any denture cleaner with the
American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Some people use hand soap or mild dishwashing
liquid to clean their dentures, which are both acceptable. Other types of
household cleaners and many toothpastes are too abrasive and should not be
used for cleaning dentures.
Clean your dentures by thoroughly rinsing off
loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply the denture cleaner. Brush
all denture surfaces gently to avoid damaging the plastic or bending the
attachments.
A denture could lose its proper shape if it
is not kept moist. At night, the denture should be placed in soaking
solution or water. However, if the appliance has metal attachments, they
could be tarnished if placed in soaking solution. Your dentist can recommend
the proper method for keeping your dentures in good shape.
Will my partial denture need
adjusting?
Over time, adjusting the partial denture may
be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the
fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting
in a loose-fitting denture. Partial Dentures that do not fit properly should
be adjusted by your dentist. Loose partial dentures can cause various
problems, including sores or infections. See your dentist promptly if your
denture becomes loose.
Can I make minor adjustments or
repairs to my partial denture?
You can do serious harm to your partial
denture and to your health by trying to adjust or repair your denture. A
denture that is not made to fit precisely by a dentist can cause irritation
and sores. Using a do-it-yourself kit can damage the appliance beyond
repair. Glues sold over-the-counter often contain harmful chemicals and
should not be used on a denture.
If your denture no longer fits properly, if
it breaks, cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose, see your
dentist immediately. In many cases, dentists can make necessary adjustments
or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require that the
denture be sent to a special dental laboratory.
Must I do anything special to
take care of my mouth?
Brushing twice a day and cleaning between
your teeth daily help prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to
tooth loss. Pay special attention to cleaning teeth that fit under the
denture's metal clasps. Plaque that becomes trapped under the clasps will
increase the risk of tooth decay. We will demonstrate how to properly brush
and clean between teeth. Selecting a balanced diet for proper nutrition is
also important.
