Partial Denture:

If you are missing only a few teeth scattered over the upper or lower teeth, or even if you have a minimum of two teeth on both sides of the arch, then you can most inexpensively replace the missing teeth with a removable partial denture (RPD). There are several types of RPD's. All of them use standard plastic denture teeth as replacements for the missing natural teeth. The differences between them are the materials that are used to support the denture teeth and retain the RPD in the mouth. They are commonly classified as: 1. Flipper; 2. Cast Metal Partial; 3. Flexible Framework Partial.

- Flippers

This is the least expensive of all the removable partial dentures. The largest single advantage to this type of RPD (aside from the cost) is that new teeth and new denture base can easily be added to an existing treatment RPD. These are frequently fabricated even if the remaining teeth have existing decay or periodontal disease and their prognosis is doubtful.

- Cast Metal RPDs

Cast Metal RPD means removable Partial Dentures with cast metal frameworks. The Advantage of cast RPD has higher stability and retentiveness than other RPD treatments. Therefore, patients chew more comfortably after treatment. Also, because of the framework is made of metal, the Cast metal RPD’s sustain better durability.

- Flexible Framework Partial Dentures

- The most recent advance in dental materials has been the application of nylon-like materials to the fabrication of dental appliances. Then most commonly used brand name is Valplast. The advantage is that they are very esthetic because they have no metal frames or clasps, are relatively comfortable, and almost never break. However, they are difficult to adjust if that is necessary, and the pinkish framework can become discolored about 4-5 years of use.

Full Denture

Full dentures are for patients who have lost all remaining teeth on either upper, lower or both arches.

The common problems for dentures are that the bone and tissue underneath the dentures continue to shrink while the size of the dentures is remained unchanged. The consequences of that are 1. The dentures become looser and looser, 2. The facial height decreases leading to esthetic unappealing.

Today, implant can be used to support either partial or full dentures, as the implant supported dentures (partial or full) can greatly enhance chewing function, esthetic appearance, and retention. We have been using this technique effectively to restore chewing ability and enhance esthetic appearance for our patients. (click on photo gallery.)

We provide quality dental services including general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry in Pleasant Hill, Concord, Walnut Creek, and Contra Costa County of Bay Area in California.

Call or email us if you have any questions.

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