What are the Differences Between Partial and Full Dentures?

Whether you are missing some or all your teeth, dentures can help. Partial dentures and full dentures are the two main types of dentures.

Full Dentures

Full dentures are the best choice for those who are missing all or almost all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Also known as complete or traditional, full dentures are a removable full set of upper or lower teeth. They are made to look exactly like your natural teeth.

There are two types of full dentures: conventional and immediate. You will be able to use conventional dentures eight to twelve weeks after the final tooth has been extracted. This waiting period allows the gums and jawbone to heal and adjust after extraction. This means a shorter adjustment period while you get used to wearing the denture.

Immediate dentures are ready to wear right away after the last tooth is removed. Immediate dentures are often preferred because the patient doesn’t have to be without teeth for eight to twelve weeks. Without the healing time, the teeth will be healing from the last extraction while you wear the dentures, so there will likely be an adjustment period as your gums heal.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are an excellent option if you have some natural teeth remaining. They can be fixed in place or removable. Fixed partial dentures are also known as dental bridges. They are fixed in your mouth using the remaining natural teeth as anchors to support the artificial teeth. Removable partial dentures are held in place by a metal frame and clasps. They have artificial teeth on them for each tooth that you’re missing, and gaps for your remaining natural teeth.

Feel free to call or stop by Hale Family Dentistry for more information about dentures of any kind.