Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs) are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth when a patient still retains some natural teeth in the arch. Often searched for as “partial teeth,” these appliances are custom-made to fill the gaps in the mouth, restoring appearance, the ability to chew, and effective speech. They are designed to be taken out and put back in by the wearer, offering a non-permanent and often more affordable solution compared to fixed options like dental bridges or implants.
What Removable Partial Dentures Are
The primary goal of a removable partial denture is to restore function to a mouth that is only partially missing teeth. When a person loses teeth, the remaining natural teeth can begin to shift or drift into the empty spaces, which can destabilize the entire bite structure. The partial denture acts as a space maintainer, helping to stabilize the arch and prevent this unwanted movement.
RPDs significantly improve the mechanics of eating by providing a full chewing surface, which aids in digestion and allows for a more varied diet. They also play a role in speech clarity, as missing teeth can cause whistling or lisping sounds that are corrected once the spaces are filled. Aesthetically, the replacement teeth are matched to the patient’s remaining dentition, enhancing the overall look of the smile.
RPDs are typically indicated when a patient has multiple missing teeth, when the span of missing teeth is too long for a fixed bridge, or when financial constraints preclude fixed alternatives.
Common Types and Materials Used
The different types of partial dentures are primarily distinguished by the material used to create the framework that supports the replacement teeth. The most common and robust option is the Cast Metal Framework Partial, often made from a cobalt-chromium alloy. This design features a thin, rigid metal base that connects to the natural teeth via metal clasps or discrete precision attachments, offering excellent stability and a long lifespan.
Acrylic Partials, sometimes called “flippers,” use a thicker, gum-colored plastic base and may incorporate simple wire clasps for retention. These are the least expensive and bulkiest option, frequently used as a temporary solution while a patient waits for a more definitive restoration. Because the acrylic material is less durable, it is not intended for long-term, heavy chewing forces.
A third option is the Flexible Partial, constructed from a thermoplastic nylon resin, such as Valplast. These are popular for their aesthetic appeal, as the material is translucent and the clasps are often gum-colored, making them virtually unnoticeable. Flexible partials are lightweight and comfortable due to their lack of a rigid metal framework, but they can be more challenging to adjust or repair.
The Procedure for Getting a Partial
The process of receiving a custom-fitted partial denture typically involves several appointments over weeks or months. The first step involves a comprehensive examination and treatment planning to determine the ideal type of partial based on the patient’s specific oral health needs. Following this, the dental team takes impressions, or molds, of the mouth using a viscous material to create accurate working models of the teeth and gums.
These models are sent to a dental laboratory, where the partial denture’s framework is designed and fabricated. The patient returns for a “try-in” appointment to check the metal framework for fit or evaluate a wax setup of the artificial teeth to confirm color and positioning. The final appointment is the delivery, where the completed partial denture is fitted, and the dentist makes adjustments to the clasps and biting surfaces to ensure comfortable seating and proper alignment.
Maintenance and Daily Care
Proper daily maintenance is necessary to ensure the longevity of the partial denture and the health of the remaining natural teeth and gums. The appliance should be removed and cleaned daily using a soft-bristled denture brush and a non-abrasive cleanser, such as mild dish soap or a dedicated denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the acrylic, creating surfaces where bacteria can accumulate.
When the partial denture is not being worn, it should be stored in water or a soaking solution to prevent the material from drying out and warping, which would compromise the fit. It is recommended to remove the partial overnight to allow the gum tissues beneath the denture base to rest and receive proper blood flow. Regular dental check-ups remain important, as the dentist needs to assess the fit of the partial and check the natural teeth that support the appliance for signs of decay or gum disease.