Benefits of upper and lower partial dentures

As we age, our teeth become more vulnerable to breakage, decay, and other dental issues. Between the hustle and bustle of life, missed dental appointments, or just not having the best oral health genetics, many of us may find ourselves dealing with a missing tooth or two before we know it. Such gaps not only invite further oral health problems but can also chip away at our confidence. At Aspen Dental, we understand that life doesn’t aways go as planned, and restoring your smile is our priority. Enter our partial dentures solution—your ticket back to your truest smile.

What are partial dentures?

Partial dentures are removable dental appliances that neatly fill in gaps left by missing teeth. Whether you need upper (maxillary) or lower (mandibular) partials, each set is custom crafted to restore your smile. This solution offers a stable yet removable option that can improve your ability to chew, your speech, and your confidence – which is why this is such a popular choice.  

The purpose of partial dentures: Are they right for you? 

Partial dentures might be the perfect solution for you if you still have some natural, healthy teeth. Not only do they boost the look of your smile, but they also help keep your teeth aligned, prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into open spaces and offer support to your facial muscles.

Comparison with other dental restoration options

Partial dentures are just one of various dental restoration options. Knowing which dental solution can be right for you can get confusing. Here’s how partial dentures par up to different types of tooth replacement solutions:

Partial dentures vs. traditional dentures

Complete dentures are the go-to for folks who have lost a majority of their teeth or are experiencing advanced gum disease. On the other hand, if you have most of your teeth or a few missing teeth, partial dentures might be the way to go.  

Partial dentures vs. bridges and implants

Permanent solutions like implant-supported bridges and dental implants can be great for filling in missing spaces in your smile, given the neighboring teeth and jawbone are up to the task. However, we know that this option may not be for everyone. This is where partial dentures shine, as they offer a removable and easy-to-care for alternative that may be better suited for your budget.  

Benefits of upper and lower partial dentures

Now that you have a better understanding of what exactly partial dentures are and have compared them with other dental procedures, it’s time to see just how beneficial they can be. Here are seven benefits to upper and lower partial dentures. 

Chewing

With partial dentures, you can say goodbye to chewing uncomfortably on one side of your mouth or with certain teeth. One of the most notable improvements upon receiving partial denture treatment is your chewing, as they allow you to have a more natural and balanced eating experience. While adjusting to your partial dentures it may be wise to avoid eating certain foods and cutting your food into smaller pieces while you get acclimated to them.

Improvement in speech clarity

Having gaps in your smile can affect how you speak, but partial dentures are here to help. They improve your ability to articulate words clearly, boosting both your clarity in conversation and your confidence. Whether you're leading meetings, delivering impactful speeches, or cherishing special moments, partial dentures ensure your words are as memorable as the moments themselves. 

Oral health benefits

By filling in gaps left by missing teeth, partial dentures can prevent shifting teeth and maintain alignment. Beyond preserving your teeth's proper alignment, partials support the jawbone and reduce the risk of gum disease. 

Removable (non-invasive)

Thanks to modern dental technology, partial dentures are custom-fit and made with durable materials. They're easy to adapt to, meaning you'll be back to enjoying all of life's treats without skipping a beat, with the freedom to remove them whenever you need. 

Longevity and durability

Taking good care of your partial dentures means they can serve you well for many years. According to the ADA (American Dental Association), it's best practice to check in with your dentist on your partials every five years. This helps catch any wear and tear early on, making sure your smile stays healthy and bright. Additionally, routine hygiene appointments are still highly recommended to keep your natural teeth in a healthy conduction or state.

Cost effectiveness

Upper and lower partial dentures are a budget-friendly option to maintain your oral health, and they're usually easy to repair, thanks to our onsite labs. At Aspen Dental, we want you to love your new smile. That’s why we offer a Dentures Money-Back Guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with your dentures, you can return them¹ within 90 days of your final insertion or hard reline for a full refund. We're here to make things right for you.

¹Denture Money-Back Guarantee applies to all full and partial dentures and covers the cost of the permanent denture(s) only. Additional adjustments may be offered prior to refund. The guarantee period begins upon insert of final denture or hard reline and refund request must be submitted within 90 days thereafter. Denture(s) must be returned within 90 days after refund request date.

Discover partial dentures at Aspen Dental

Each smile we come across is different, and we’re proud to offer diverse partial denture options², all designed to meet the needs of our patients.  

Premium Choice: Flexilytes Combo℠

Our elite Flexilytes Combo℠ merges the lightweight, natural look and rigidity of our Flexilytes with the strength of a metal frame. This blend provides both a stunning appearance and excellent durability, keeping your smile secure.

Natural Appearance: Flexilytes℠

For those desiring dentures that mirror the look and feel of natural teeth, our Flexilytes℠ are the perfect match. This metal-free alternative champions authenticity, bringing you closer to the smile you remember. Crafted to be indistinguishable from your natural teeth, they help restore not just your smile, but your confidence too. 

Unmatched Security: Cast Partial

When durability and function are paramount, our Cast Partial dentures rise to the occasion. This standard option provides the necessary strength for everyday confidence, allowing you to enjoy life without compromise. They are designed for those who value a denture that supports a lively and unrestricted lifestyle. 

Our Aspen Dental dentists and experts are dedicated to making sure you get the best fit for your lifestyle, helping you find your dream smile once again.

²Not all partial denture solutions are suitable for every individual. Each case is unique and requires professional evaluation by your Aspen Dental care team.

Tips from an expert: Maintenance and care for partial dentures

If you’re considering, or already own partial dentures, it’s a good idea to know how to properly maintain them. Learn more about denture maintenance from our expert Eric Kukucka, DD, VP of Clinical Removeable Prosthetics and Design Technologies:

Preventing Plaque Build-up

Dentures can accumulate plaque, bacteria, and food particles just like natural teeth. Daily cleaning helps prevent plaque build-up, which can lead to gum irritation, bad breath, and even gum disease. 

Maintaining Fit

Clean dentures fit better. If dentures are not cleaned properly, plaque and debris can accumulate, affecting the fit and comfort. This can lead to sore spots, discomfort, and difficulty chewing. 

Avoiding Odor

Dentures that are not routinely cleaned can develop an unpleasant odor over time. Cleaning them regularly helps prevent odor and keeps your mouth feeling fresh. 

Preventing Staining

Proper cleaning removes stains caused by tobacco, coffee, wine, tea, foods, and tobacco. This helps keep your dentures looking clean and natural. 

Cleaning partials

Cleaning your partial dentures³ is a simple but indispensable task. Regular brushing and using specialized denture cleaners will keep them looking good and functioning well. Proper cleanliness also decreases the likelihood of oral infections and bad breath. 

Removal for sleep

It is recommended that you take out your partial dentures while you sleep, so they can stay clean, and your mouth can rest.  

Regular dental check-ups

For those with partial dentures, or any dentures for that matter, more frequent dentist office visits may be required to ensure your oral health is in tip-top shape. Additionally, your dentist can make sure your partials are fitting properly and adjust if needed.  

³Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions and recommended cleaning duration for your particular product.

Explore the benefits of partial dentures for a healthier smile

Figuring out the perfect dental solution doesn't have to be complicated—let our experts help by visiting your local Aspen Dental. Just swing by for a consultation, and we'll steer you toward the choice that fits you like a glove. As far as partial dentures go, they're a popular choice amongst many folks, thanks to their adaptability, affordability, and removability. 


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