Disadvantages of Removable Dentures?
If you are missing one or more teeth you basically have three options for tooth replacement; dental implants, a fixed bridge, and removable partial dentures. All three solutions will help you function more normally, improve chewing and talking, prevent your existing teeth from drifting and restore your healthy smile. Depending on your personal needs, removable dentures might be a good choice, either in the long-term or as a temporary solution. First, we will look at the different types of partial dentures, some of their advantages and disadvantages, and how to properly care for your mouth with removable dentures.
Partial dentures are custom fabricated in a lab from impressions of your mouth. A temporary partial, called a flipper, is usually used immediately after an extraction so you are never without a tooth. It is primarily for aesthetic purposes and usually does not function very well. A flipper can cause gum irritation or thinning of your soft tissues. Flippers are best in the short term during the healing of the extraction site.
Traditional removable partial dentures can replace one or more missing teeth and usually have clasps that wrap around neighboring healthy teeth to keep it secure. The fit of the partial is important to evenly distribute your biting forces, prevent any trauma to your gums, and to look and function as normally as possible.
Advantages of Removable Partial Dentures
If you have multiple missing teeth, removable partial dentures are a less invasive solution and have a lower cost than other tooth restoration options.
Partials are a better option than a complete denture to replace missing teeth in your lower arch if some natural teeth can be saved. Many people have difficulty adapting to a removable complete lower denture.
Disadvantages of Removable Partial Dentures
Here are some disadvantages of the removable partial denture:
* There is an adjustment time to get used to having it in your mouth.
* Removable dentures can increase the build-up of plaque around the supporting natural teeth which can lead to decay and gum disease.
* Pressure or any movement of the denture can cause trauma to the abutment teeth or gums.
* Bone loss at the location of the missing teeth can occur and over time might affect the adjacent teeth.
* The loss of an abutment tooth will require you to get a new denture.
* The removable partial might not function as well as a fixed option for tooth replacement.
* They need to be removed at night.
Proper Care for Your Mouth with Partial Dentures
Oral hygiene is extremely important. Here are some tips:
* Remove it every night so your gums get air and blood circulation.
* Use an electric toothbrush to increase plaque removal.
* Flossing is essential, especially around the abutment teeth.
* Clean your dentures as advised.
* Store it in clean water.
* Place it in your mouth and seat it with your fingers, not by biting it.
* Watch your diet and be aware of an increased risk of tooth decay.
* Maintain regular dental appointments for cleanings and exams to keep your mouth healthy.
* Consider fluoride treatments to help prevent tooth decay.
* A dry mouth can increase discomfort as well as increasing tissue trauma. Ask your dentist for treatment options.