Partials vs. Permanent Dentures: Which One Is Better?

Aug 01, 2021

Life with missing teeth is not enjoyable. Your speech gets affected, your jawbone will begin deteriorating, and your face will look pruned at the jaw in no time. Let’s not forget that you might not even enjoy your favorite meals.

However, having missing teeth is something that plagues close to 178 million Americans. But, having missing teeth hasn’t deterred close to 35 million Americans from enjoying their lives simply because they are using dentures.

If you have missing teeth, you are probably wondering whether going for removable partial dentures would be better than permanent dentures. If this is the question in your mind, let’s see what sets them apart.

Permanent Dentures 101

Also known as fixed dentures are just as the name suggests – dentures that are permanently put in place and cannot be removed. They are an excellent option for people who have missing teeth and desire to restore their teeth’s functionality.

With permanent dentures, you will speak normally and indulge in your favorite foods because they are stable and durable.

Permanent dentures are further divided into:

  • Fixed Partial Dentures

Fixed partial dentures operate the same as dental bridges in that they both fill the gaps filled by missing teeth. Also, they are secured to adjacent teeth or dental implants placed in the jawbone if you are looking for a discreet and functional solution.

  • Fixed Complete Dentures

Fixed complete dentures are similar to fixed partial dentures with one significant difference – they are used by patients who wish to replace all of their missing teeth. Since there are no natural teeth to secure the dentures, they are attached to dental implants instead.

  • Removable Dentures, In a Nutshell

On the other hand, we have removable dentures that can also be used to replace missing teeth. However, they differ from permanent dentures in that they are designed to be removed and worn at your convenience.

Just like permanent dentures, removable dentures are also divided into two categories:

  • Removable Partial Dentures

These dentures are used to cover the gaps left by missing teeth. They have a set of artificial teeth attached to your natural teeth adjacent to the gaps with metal clasps. As mentioned earlier, these artificial teeth can be removed without our dentist’s help.

This is what makes them appropriate for senior citizens since they will not desire to invest in dental implants. However, they do not restore your teeth’s functionality as much as a fixed denture.

  • Removed Complete Dentures

Removable complete dentures are not secured to your natural teeth, and neither do they need implants. These dentures are made for people who don’t have teeth or wish to replace all of their teeth. Since they are not secured using dental implants, they also have the same drawbacks as the removable partials.

Which One Is Better?

As mentioned earlier, permanent dentures are secured on dental implants to keep them in place. This feature alone makes them more efficient in terms of oral function. They also aid in oral health preservation than the dental restorations that rest above the gum line, such as removable dentures.

Besides having stability, fixed dentures also provide a root replacement because they are secured with dental implants. Also, having implants helps stimulate the jawbone and keep it strong.

On the other hand, removable dentures are used to replace the crowns and not the roots. This may result in bone loss. So, this means that there will be reduced oral function as time goes by. This is what makes eating certain foods uncomfortable.

Permanent dentures have better aesthetics and are comfortable since they don’t shift in the mouth. However, they can be expensive to fix. Also, if you don’t wish to undergo dental implant surgery, removable dentures are the better option. Plus, if you are looking for an option that is easier to clean and manage, removable dentures are the go-to option.

In any case, the best thing to do would be to discuss with our dentist, who would help you find the option that is appropriate for you.

How Long Should I Wear the Denture?

Sadly enough, dentures were never meant to last forever. You can wear them for around ten years. This is because gums change as you age. Therefore, you will need to see our dentist every year so that your bite is checked.

So, if you need adjustments or repairs to your dentures, contact us at On Pointe Dentistry to schedule an appointment.

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