If you have several missing teeth, an affordable way to replace them is with partial dentures. There are several options for partial dentures, and they each have their advantages and disadvantages.
Traditional Removable Partial Denture
The replacement teeth and artificial gums for a traditional removable partial denture are attached to a metal framework that clips on the teeth. The framework can also be made of a pink or translucent plastic that blends in with your gums.
Advantages
- They are less expensive than a fixed bridge.
- Multiple teeth can be replaced with one appliance.
Disadvantages
- If metal clasps are used to keep them in place, they may not be completely concealed.
- There can be some discomfort from wearing the hardware.
- They are not as stable as a dental bridge or dental implants.
Precision Attachment Partial Denture
The precision attachment partial denture is made of plastic, and it has a metal framework. It has extensions with precision attachments that fit into slots in the tooth or other mechanisms that allow them to be completely hidden.
Advantages
- It fits and looks better than other types of removable partial dentures.
- The clasps are nearly invisible.
Disadvantages
- It costs more than a standard removable partial denture.
- It is not as stable as dental implants or a dental bridge.
Dental Flipper
The dental flipper is the least expensive partial denture, but it also should be considered only a temporary tooth replacement. Depending on whether an upper or lower tooth is missing, a pink plate is molded to fit your upper palate, or to fit the inside of your teeth, near your tongue. An acrylic tooth that closely matches your natural tooth is attached to the plate. At an additional cost, you can choose to have metal clasps attached to the plate, which helps secure it to your teeth and enables you to wear it longer.
Advantages
- It’s the least expensive partial denture.
Disadvantages
- It’s a temporary tooth replacement. If you try to wear it as a permanent solution for a missing tooth, it is not healthy for the gums.
- They break easily, and often need to be removed when you eat.
