Tooth loss has a serious negative impact on your oral health and function. While a full denture replaces an entire arch of teeth, partial dentures can replace one or multiple teeth in more than one area of your smile. This removable dental appliance consists of an acrylic base supporting artificial teeth. Patients who are looking for maximum stability can choose implant-supported partials. At our Nashville, TN, dental practice, Dr. Jerry Hancock creates metal-free partials that are more comfortable and virtually unnoticeable compared to traditional partial dentures.
Dr. Hancock provides metal-free partial dentures for improved comfort and aesthetics.
Who is a Candidate for Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures need healthy adjacent teeth for support. Therefore, patients should be free from periodontal disease and tooth decay. If these issues are present, Dr. Hancock will recommend appropriate treatments so that your new prostheses can be attached to a solid foundation. Those who are considering implant-supported partials must have sufficient jawbone tissue to support the implant posts. If bone atrophy has occurred, a preparatory procedure, such as a bone graft or sinus lift, can restore candidacy. Once the implants are in place, you can depend on them to prevent further bone atrophy.
Creating and Placing Your Partial Dentures
Once any necessary prerequisite procedures have been completed, Dr. Hancock will take impressions of your gums and remaining teeth. These will be used to create a model of your bite. Our trusted dental lab will use this model to craft your custom partial denture. Traditional partial dentures will be fabricated with metal clasps that fit firmly around your neighboring teeth. However, if you choose a metal-free partial, the framework will be made with a quality material such as a high-strength polymer or thermoplastic resin.
If missing teeth have left you with poor chewing function or compromised speech, a partial denture designed by Dr. Hancock can restore your comfort and confidence.
The Advantages of Partial Dentures
Patients who choose to replace their missing teeth with partial dentures can enjoy numerous benefits. For example, these custom prostheses can:
- Prevent movement and shifting
- Help maintain your facial structure
- Prevent further tooth loss
- Fill the gaps in your smile for a more aesthetic look
- Promote even bite forces for a more balanced smile
- Improve your ability to chew, eat, and speak
- Prevent jaw conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
- Give your confidence a boost
- Significantly improve your quality of life
In addition, traditional partial dentures are affordable. Implant-supported options will have a higher upfront cost, but with proper care and maintenance, implants are incredibly long-lasting. In fact, they often last a lifetime.
Learn More about Partial Dentures
If missing teeth have left you with poor chewing function or compromised speech, a partial denture designed by Dr. Hancock can restore your comfort and confidence. Dr. Hancock can assess your needs and help you determine a treatment plan. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation at our practice, contact us online anytime or give us a call at (615) 383-0132.
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