Common Questions about Partial Dentures in San Clemente

If you live in or around the San Clemente area and are looking to replace one or more missing teeth, partial dentures may be the perfect solution. However, many, if not most, people usually have a number of questions before or even after they are fitted with dentures. The more common ones being:

Why Is It Necessary to Replace Missing Teeth?

Not only do missing front teeth make you look older than you are, but over time, the teeth on either side of the gap will lean inward, which can lead to uneven wear and problems with your bite. Missing teeth contribute to bone loss. Like every other bone in your body, the ones in your jaw need stimulation to maintain density. Without the action of the teeth, the bone will not build more cells and will begin to deteriorate. Partial dentures can solve all these problems.

How Can Missing Teeth Be Replaced?

Although it depends on several factors, including the number and location of the missing teeth and the condition of the remaining ones, the simplest solution is one or more removable false teeth called a partial denture. This replacement tooth, or teeth, are attached to a gum-colored plastic and held together by a metal framework with an attachment that fits around the adjacent natural teeth

How Long Does It Take to Become Used to a Partial Denture?

This varies from person to person. Initially, the denture feels awkward, but most patients get accustomed to it in a matter of days. You may want to begin by eating soft foods that are easier to chew and avoid sticky foods like chewing gum or toffee. Please make sure you chew on both sides of your mouth to keep an even pressure on the denture. If enunciating certain words are difficult with the denture in, remember that this too will sort itself out in time.

It also takes some practice to insert and remove the denture without forcing it or biting down, which could break the clasp. Also, the initial breaking-in period will quickly reveal whether the partial fits exactly as it is supposed to. Should an area of your gum become sore, we will make the necessary adjustments to your partial dentures.

Should I Wear My Partial Denture 24 Hours a Day?

Once you are fully accustomed to your new denture, we recommend that you wear it all day, then remove and clean it thoroughly before bedtime.

How Should I Take Care of My Partial Denture?

You should take care of your denture just as you do your natural teeth, as it needs to be gently brushed at least twice a day to get rid of food debris and plaque and prevent staining. However, most commercial toothbrushes and toothpaste are too harsh for dentures. You will need a specially designed brush and toothpaste made for dentures. Some gentle soap or dishwashing liquid will also work. Rinse the denture thoroughly, then moisten the brush and gently clean all surfaces, taking care not to bend any of the attachments.

Remember, your partial is very likely to break or crack should you drop it onto a hard surface, which is why it is a good idea to remove and clean it over something soft like a folded towel.  It is also exceedingly important to keep your denture moist; however, many soaking solutions can tarnish the metal parts. Therefore, you should soak them in plain cool water.

How Long Will a Partial Denture Last?

Properly taken care of, a partial denture can last between five and 10 years. However, because the natural aging process causes changes in your gum ridges, as well as the underlying bone, they may need to be adjusted from times to time. Never continue to wear loose or ill-fitting dentures as they can cause sores and related infections.

Should you have any additional questions about your partials, we will be more than happy to help you.