If you’re missing some or all of your teeth, dentures can restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and help you feel more confident as you go about your day.

When considering dentures, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is if you want a full or partial set.

In this blog, you’ll learn the difference between partial and full dentures, as well as the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed choice for your oral health needs.

Partial Dentures vs. Full Dentures

Let’s begin with the basics. What are the differences between full and partial dentures?

• Full dentures are used for those who are missing all their teeth

• Partial dentures are used for those who are missing a few teeth and want to fill in the gaps, prevent shifting, and reduce the risk of losing more teeth in the future

• Full dentures consist of an acrylic base that sits on the gum tissue with porcelain or acrylic teeth built onto the base, creating the appearance of natural teeth

• Partial dentures feature a thin metal framework (covered by gum-coloured acrylic and porcelain or acrylic teeth) that attaches to the natural teeth (known as the abutment teeth)

Whether you choose partial or full dentures, you will receive customised solutions tailored to your specific situation. A denture prosthetist will carefully examine your teeth and gums and help you make the best choice.

Pros and Cons of Partial Dentures

If you’re just missing a few teeth (maybe your front teeth got knocked out in an accident, or you’ve had a few teeth removed near the back), partial dentures could be a viable option.

However, consider the pros and cons carefully before deciding:

Pros

Since partial dentures only replace a few teeth, they’re typically easier to get used to and less invasive. People tend to adjust better to partial dentures for missing teeth in the lower jaw, in particular.

Cons

Because you still have natural teeth remaining, you’ll need to take good care of them — especially the abutment teeth — to prevent plaque buildup and cavities.

The abutment teeth may also become weakened or damaged from pressure caused by the dentures.

Pros and Cons of Full Dentures

Like partial dentures, full dentures also come with certain pros and cons that you should factor in before making a final choice.

Pros

Full dentures provide a simpler and more cost-effective option to replace an entire arch of missing teeth (upper or lower).

It’s also easier to take full dentures out to clean them at night, helping you to keep up with good oral hygiene habits and prevent cavities and other issues.

Cons

Full dentures aren’t as stable as implants, meaning they may fall out of the mouth unexpectedly.

Because full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, they may also take longer to get used to compared to partial dentures.

Common Denture Misconceptions

Whether you’re considering full or partial dentures, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Here are some common misconceptions you might believe:

• It’s easy to tell that you’re wearing dentures: As long as your dentures are properly fitted by a denture prosthetist, most people will have no idea you’re wearing them.

• Eating with dentures is difficult: It takes some adjustment, but most people can eat just fine with dentures (with the exception of hard, crunchy, and sticky foods).

• You don’t have to see a dentist after getting dentures: You still need to see a denture prosthetist regularly to ensure your dentures are in good shape and that your gums and remaining teeth are healthy.

It’s also a myth that dentures last forever or are indestructible. You must take care when cleaning and removing them to keep them in good shape.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dentures

If you’re not sure which to choose between full and partial dentures, start by asking yourself the following questions:

• How many teeth am I missing?

• Are my missing teeth located side by side or close together?

• Are my gums and remaining teeth generally healthy?

When you visit a denture clinic, a prosthetist will conduct a thorough evaluation and help you make an informed decision (while taking your needs and concerns into account, of course).

The Denture Fitting Process

When getting fitted for partial or full dentures, you’ll go through the following steps:

• Initial consultation: During this stage, the denture prosthetist will assess your teeth and gums to help you decide which approach works best.

• Model creation: They’ll take measurements and impressions to create a wax model; you’ll get to try on the model and ensure it fits properly before the actual dentures are made.

• Final fitting: Once the dentures have been finished, you’ll have a final fitting to ensure there aren’t any issues. If everything looks good, you’ll be able to go home with your new dentures.

• Follow-up: In the following weeks, you’ll go back to the denture prosthetist for a few more visits to ensure the dentures fit well and address any concerns you might have.

The denture clinic’s team will help you stay comfortable throughout the entire process. They’ll also check to ensure your dentures fit correctly and advise on adjusting quickly.

Maintaining Your Dentures

Proper maintenance is crucial for full and partial dentures. If you want them to last and avoid contributing to tooth decay (if you have natural teeth remaining) or gum disease, regular cleaning and gum brushing are essential.

Your denture prosthetist will explain the proper cleaning and storage process. Follow their instructions for the best results.

Are You Considering Full or Partial Dentures?

Both partial and full dentures are excellent options for those with missing teeth. Keep the information discussed above in mind to choose the best denture type for your needs.

Do you want to learn more about full or partial dentures? If so, contact us today at Denture Haus for a free consultation with our expert team.