Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth in a section of your mouth. They are a popular solution for individuals who have lost some, but not all, of their natural teeth. Partial dentures provide a functional and aesthetic alternative to full dentures or dental implants, offering numerous benefits:

• Improved Chewing Function: Partial dentures help restore your ability to chew properly, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods.
• Enhanced Speech: They can help improve speech clarity and pronunciation, especially if you have missing front teeth.
• Reduced Strain on Remaining Teeth: They help distribute biting forces evenly, preventing excessive wear on remaining natural teeth.
• Natural-Looking Smile: Partial dentures can fill gaps in your smile, creating a more aesthetically pleasing appearance and boosting your confidence.
• Improved Facial Structure: Missing teeth can cause your face to sink in, affecting your facial structure. Partial dentures help maintain a more youthful appearance.
• Discreet Design: Modern partial dentures are designed to be discreet and less noticeable.
• Preservation of Natural Teeth: Partial dentures do not require the removal of healthy teeth, unlike full dentures.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: Partial dentures can actually aid in oral hygiene by helping to keep your remaining teeth clean and preventing food from getting trapped.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to full dentures or implants, partial dentures are often more affordable.

Partial dentures are a good option for people who:

• Have lost some, but not all, of their natural teeth. This could be due to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury.
• Have remaining healthy teeth that can support the denture. These teeth may need to be slightly modified to accommodate the clasps or attachments.
• Are seeking a cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Partial dentures are generally more affordable than full dentures or dental implants.
• Want to improve their chewing function and speech clarity. Partial dentures can restore your ability to chew a wide range of foods and speak clearly.
• Want to maintain a natural-looking smile and boost their confidence. Partial dentures can fill gaps in your smile, creating a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

There are several types of partial dentures available, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences.

A fixed bridge is a non-removable denture that is permanently attached to your remaining natural teeth. It is composed of a series of artificial teeth (pontics) that are fused to crowns placed over your adjacent teeth.

• Benefits: Provides a very secure and stable solution for replacing missing teeth. The fixed bridge feels like natural teeth and allows for proper chewing function.
• Drawbacks: Requires preparing healthy teeth to accommodate the crowns. May be more expensive than removable dentures.

A removable partial denture is the most common type of partial denture. It consists of a base that rests on your gums, holding artificial teeth. Clasps or attachments secure the denture to your remaining natural teeth.

• Benefits: More affordable than fixed bridges, easier to adjust, and allows for cleaning of the denture and remaining teeth.
• Drawbacks: Can be more noticeable than fixed bridges. Might require periodic adjustments or repairs as your gums change over time.

Flexible partial dentures are made from a thin, flexible material that is often preferred for its comfort and discreet appearance. They are lighter than traditional acrylic dentures and can be more comfortable for those with sensitive gums.

• Benefits: More comfortable and less noticeable than traditional dentures. Typically more flexible and resilient than acrylic dentures.
• Drawbacks: Can be more expensive than traditional acrylic dentures and may not be as durable as other types.

Cast metal partial dentures are made from a metal framework that is customized to fit your mouth. The framework is usually made of chrome or cobalt-chrome, and the artificial teeth are attached to the framework.

• Benefits: Extremely strong and durable. Can be less noticeable than acrylic dentures because they can be made in thinner designs.
• Drawbacks: Metal dentures may be more expensive than acrylic dentures. They may be less comfortable for those with sensitive gums.

Description: Acrylic partial dentures are made from a pink acrylic base that matches the colour of your gums. Artificial teeth are then attached to the base.

• Benefits: The most affordable type of partial denture. Often more comfortable than metal dentures because they are lightweight and do not conduct heat or cold.
• Drawbacks: Acrylic dentures can be more noticeable than other types, and they may stain over time. They can also be more fragile than metal dentures.

As a general guideline, you can expect to pay between $1,000 to $5,000 or more for a partial denture in Australia.

To get an accurate estimate of the cost of partial dentures, it is essential to consult with a qualified Dental Prosthetist from Sydney Oral Design Denture Clinic. They can assess your individual needs, recommend the most suitable type of partial denture, and provide a personalised quote.