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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 affect your smile and can lead to serious health concerns if they are not fixed immediately. 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 give you a pretty smile. It keeps your jawline and facial structure intact and can prevent additional issues.  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 resemble natural teeth, and technological advances have made them more lasting and durable. Here are some of the differences between full vs. partial dentures:

Full Dentures

  • Designed for people who have lost all of their teeth
  • Rests on the gums
  • Full dentures need to be removed daily for cleaning and maintenance
  • Conventional (non-implant) may need adhesive to remain in place

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 most of their teeth, even in different spots. Full dentures are for individuals who are missing all of their teeth.
  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. Cost and maintenance – Be sure to discuss the associated costs and expected maintenance of full vs. partial dentures with your prosthodontist.

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 prosthodontic practice located in Durham, NC. We welcome new and existing patients who need full or partial dentures. Our team will perform a complete examination of your teeth and discuss which services they feel will benefit you the most.

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.