Partial Dentures vs. Complete Dentures

Dentures have come a long way, as we can now provide multiple options to address missing teeth — from one tooth to a full mouth restoration. With customized partial dentures, patients can restore the function and appearance of their smile. If you want to restore your smile’s functionality without sacrificing a natural, healthy appearance, take a closer look at your options.

Various types of partial dentures

Partial dentures are for those missing one tooth or a few in sporadic locations. While some options are more durable than others, there are multiple to choose from. The following removable partial dentures are available today:

Acrylic partial dentures

Sometimes referred to as flippers, these partial dentures consist of acrylic materials, making them lightweight. They consist of one or more artificial teeth in sporadic locations on the top or lower jaw. However, these dentures are delicate. Therefore, they are only recommended as a temporary solution until a dental lab can craft a more durable permanent one.

Flexible partial dentures

Regarding acrylic allergies, flexible partial dentures are the alternative to flippers. These dentures consist of polycarbonate, nylon thermoplastic, or vinyl materials, making them more flexible and lightweight. However, they are still delicate, making them another temporary solution.

Cast metal partial dentures

The most common and durable removable partial dentures are cast metal partial dentures. They consist of a false tooth that fills the empty space with the help of metal clasps that attach to adjacent natural teeth. Cast metal partial dentures can last upwards of 10 years with proper care.

The design of complete dentures

Complete dentures are sometimes known as traditional or full dentures because they replace all teeth on one or both arches. Their design consists of metal, acrylic, or both materials. They have two parts: the denture base and the artificial teeth. The denture base simulates the look of gums and will require an over-the-counter denture bonding agent to stick to the actual gums and palate (roof of the mouth) for hours at a time.

In addition to the bonding agent, patients will need special cleaning products to remove the agent or glue nightly or daily. Complete dentures can last between 10 and 15 years with proper care. However, the gum tissue and jawbone can sometimes deteriorate, causing the dentures to fit differently.

What partial and complete dentures have in common

Aside from restoring smiles, partial and complete dentures can become permanent fixtures. They can both attach to dental implants, which are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone. The number of posts depends on the number of teeth missing. However, four to six posts are strategically placed in each jawbone for those missing all their teeth. On top of the post is an additional titanium piece that sticks out above the gumline, called an abutment. From this point, the dental professional can place the custom complete or partial dentures.