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What’s the Difference Between Full and Partial Dentures?

image of various types of dentures helping to explain what's the difference between full and partial dentures

Missing or damaged teeth not only affect your smile but can lead to serious health concerns if they are not fixed right away. If you are considering which is best for you, full vs. partial dentures, you’ve come to the right place. The right denture solution for you is not the same for any other person. Your teeth are as individual as you are, and there are many different types of denture solutions that you should consider.

Triangle Restoration Dentistry welcomes North Carolina residents who need full or partial dentures, implants, crowns, or general dental services. Our practice in Durham delivers many different denture treatment solutions, including overdentures, retained-implant, full and partial dentures, and other custom solutions.

Contact Triangle Restoration Dentistry at 888.280.2678 to better understand the difference between full and partial dentures and explore denture treatment solutions today.

The Difference Between Full and Partial Dentures

Having a complete set of healthy teeth does more than just give you a pretty smile. It keeps your jawline and facial structure intact and can prevent a number of health complications, such as:

  • Osteoporosis
  • Gum disease
  • Shifting teeth
  • Tooth decay
  • TMJ
  • Sinus expansion
  • Jaw bone deterioration

Missing or crooked teeth can also affect self-esteem and confidence, and if chewing becomes difficult, it can lead to poor nutrition.

Today’s dentures can look just like your natural teeth, and a dentist can match them to your exact tooth color. Here are some of the differences between full vs. partial dentures:

Full Dentures

  • Designed for people who have lost most, if not all, of their teeth
  • Rests on the gum line
  • Full dentures need to be removed for cleaning and maintenance
  • Conventional (non-implant) may need adhesive to remain in place
  • The fitting process is more extensive

Partial Dentures

  • For people with a few missing teeth in one location or multiple
  • Attaches to the remaining teeth
  • Prevents existing teeth from shifting
  • Easily removable for cleaning and maintenance
  • Less invasive procedure than full dentures

Triangle Restoration Dentistry delivers a full complement of prosthodontic services, including full and partial dentures, retained dentures, and hybrid prosthetic implants. During your initial consultation, we will discuss the difference between full vs. partial dentures and which procedure will benefit you the most.

Which Is Right For You – Full vs. Partial Dentures?

Several things should be considered before deciding between partial and full dentures. The condition of your teeth and personal preferences will help determine the best solution for you.

Consider the following when deciding between partial vs. full dentures:

  1. Number of teeth remaining – Partial dentures are for people who still have the majority of their teeth, even if they are in different spots. Full dentures are for individuals who are missing most, if not all, of their teeth or their dental health is so bad that most require extraction.
  2. Condition of the remaining teeth – Partial dentures need healthy teeth to affix to adjoining teeth to lock them into place. Full dentures may be the best option if you have a few missing teeth and the remaining ones are in poor condition.
  3. Your Oral Health – The health of your gums will also determine whether full or partial dentures are best. Any gum disease or damage to the oral tissue will need to be repaired first before using dentures. Once the gums are in good condition, then the dentist will recommend full or partial dentures.
  4. Cost and Maintenance – If money is a concern, partial dentures are more cost-effective than full dentures, though there may be more maintenance costs to ensure your remaining teeth stay healthy. Full dentures do not require as much maintenance once they are in place.

Today’s dentures have come a long way since the days of George Washington and his wooden teeth. Partial dentures can mimic natural teeth, including matching the color of the adjoining teeth, and full dentures can be customized to your liking for an even better smile.

North Carolina Residents Can Find Denture Treatment Solutions Today at Triangle Restoration Dentistry

Triangle Restoration Dentistry is a full-service dental practice located in Durham, NC, and welcomes new and existing patients who need full or partial dentures. Our team will run a complete examination of the health of your teeth and go over which services they feel can benefit you the most. We can create a whole dental plan that includes regular cleaning and checkups, as well as filling cavities, inserting crowns, performing root canals, and other services.

For more information about full and partial denture differences, reach out to Triangle Restoration Dentistry online or contact our team at 888.280.2678 today.