Partial dentures - their care, and the alternatives

Dentures are still a common way of replacing a missing tooth.

For some time, dentures were the only way that a missing tooth could be replaced.

These days there are now alternatives available, and we will discuss these later.

Many of our Greenwich patients do still opt for a partial denture, partially perhaps, due to the cost, but also the fact that usually no surgery is needed to provide them.

What is a partial denture

A partial denture is a replacement tooth, which will be made to match your natural teeth. This is attached to a ‘plate’ with clasps attached which are used to hold the denture in place. These are available in a number of different materials, from the cheapest acrylic dentures to the more advanced Valplast dentures which offer flexibility and movement, whilst still retaining their stability.

Dentures are relatively easy to care for, but do require cleaning to remove residual food deposits and bacteria. They should be removed at night to allow the gums to rest, and should be placed in water to prevent any cracking. Although affordable and easy to care for, dentures are not for everyone.

Alternatives to dentures

Perhaps the best know alternative to dentures is a bridge. This offers a more stable solution than dentures, as the bridge is attached to adjacent teeth through the use of dental crowns. This procedure does involve the preparation of the teeth either side of the gap so that the bridge can be fitted. Where these teeth are otherwise healthy, it is understandable that some patients prefer not to have this procedure.

The other alternative is to have a dental implant placed. To do this, a titanium root is placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. It is then allowed to fuse with the bone over a period of a few months, providing a strong and secure base, upon which we place a crown. This procedure, available at the Confidental Clinic in Greenwich, is widely considered to be the ‘gold standard’ in tooth replacement and is increasingly popular with all ages.

Especially if the missing tooth is visible, most people will want to replace it. Our friendly dental team are happy to discuss each of these tooth replacement methods with you so that you can make an informed decision as to which you prefer.

If you are a nervous patient, but are interested in either a bridge or an implant, we do offer intravenous sedation to enable you to undergo the procedure in a relaxed and stress free manner.

If you would like to discuss your missing tooth options with us at our Greenwich practice, please call the Confidental Clinic on 020 8858 1422.