A unilateral partial denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth on a single side of the mouth. Unlike a traditional partial denture that has a connector spanning the roof of the mouth or along the lower jaw, this appliance is more localized. Its primary purpose is to restore function and appearance in a targeted manner.
Function and Design of a Unilateral Partial
A unilateral partial is recommended when remaining natural teeth are healthy enough to support the appliance, but a fixed option like a bridge is not suitable or desired. It helps prevent adjacent natural teeth from shifting into the empty space, which can cause alignment and bite issues over time. The appliance restores the ability to chew properly and supports the structure of the face.
The design centers on a gum-colored base that holds the artificial teeth and is secured using small clasps that grip neighboring natural teeth. One common material is a flexible resin, like Valplast, known for comfort and aesthetic appeal. Its clasps can be made from the same pink, gum-colored material, making them less noticeable.
Another design utilizes a rigid cast metal framework, often made from a cobalt-chromium alloy. This framework provides a strong and durable base for the denture teeth and clasps. While the metal clasps are more visible, the rigidity of the metal allows for a thinner and less bulky appliance.
The Patient Experience
The process begins with a dental consultation to assess oral health and determine if this appliance is the right solution. Next, the dentist takes precise impressions of the dental arch. These molds are sent to a dental laboratory where technicians fabricate a custom-fitted denture to ensure it fits securely and comfortably.
Once the denture is ready, the patient returns for a fitting appointment. The dentist checks the fit, bite, and comfort, and minor adjustments are often needed to eliminate pressure points. The dentist ensures the clasps are snug enough to hold the denture in place without straining the supporting teeth.
After receiving the denture, there is an adjustment period as the mouth adapts to the new appliance. For daily care, the denture should be removed at night to allow the gum tissues to rest. It must be cleaned daily with a soft brush and a specialized denture cleaner to prevent plaque buildup.
Comparing Alternatives
A fixed dental bridge is one alternative, which involves placing crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap and fusing a false tooth between them. Unlike a removable partial, a bridge is permanently cemented in place and does not need to be taken out for cleaning. This procedure requires the alteration of healthy adjacent teeth to accommodate the crowns.
Another alternative is a dental implant. This option involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root. Once the post has integrated with the bone, a crown is attached to it. This creates a standalone replacement that does not rely on neighboring teeth for support and is a permanent solution that closely mimics a natural tooth, but it is more invasive and has a higher initial cost.