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Some of the questions and answers about removable partial dentures.

How do you wear a removable partial denture?

Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, which are connected by metal framework. Removable partial dentures attach to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. Dentures with precision attachments generally cost more than those with metal clasps, and bridges are permanently fixed to your teeth. Precision attachments are generally more esthetic than metal clasps, and they are nearly invisible. Crowns on your natural teeth may improve the fit of a removable partial denture, and they are usually required with attachments. Consult your dentist to find out which type is right for you. Implants can also be used to fill the gaps instead. These are a good solution if you have enough bone or can have bone added because they won’t take out the other teeth if they fail.

Nothing in dentistry lasts forever, but in terms of bridges, the longer they are, the more of a chance they have to fail. The key to maintaining bridges and partial dentures is care. They can last 10 years, and some people retain them for upwards of 30 years. One disadvantage is that it is difficult to clean under the bridge, and if one of the teeth supporting the bridge gets wrecked, either from decay, breaks, or it comes unstuck from the bridge, it may result in bad outcomes for the other teeth. Also, food can get stuck under them, and if not cleaned properly, you get decay where your denture sits as plaque festers. They often need to be replaced or relined every so often..

How long will it take to get used to wearing a denture?

Ask your dentist for specific details about wearing dentures. Find out how long he or she prefers you to wait after your tooth is removed before the denture is placed. Some dentists believe that very little waiting time is necessary, while others prefer you wait until the gums are fully healed before getting a final fitting. Don’t worry about being without teeth for awhile — it will not cause any serious harm.

For the first few weeks, your new partial denture may feel awkward or bulky. You may feel like your mouth is very full and you’ll have the impulse to take them out. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it. Inserting and removing the denture will require some practice. Follow all instructions given by your dentist.

Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Don’t worry — you will get used to the feel of having them in your mouth. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps. When the dentist first inserts the dentures it will feel very awkward. Once at home, try to do other things to take your mind off of the dentures.

Eating with these new teeth may be a frustrating experience at first. Continue to try to eat soft foods while you get used to them. Take very small bites and relearn the chewing process to fit your new teeth. You’ll find that your tongue will be busier than ever, helping you move the food around in your mouth. Eat as much as you can with the teeth in. If you get very frustrated, excuse yourself and go remove the teeth and then return and finished the meal. Try to keep them in longer at the next meal, and you’ll soon find you’ve made it through the entire dinner.

Use a denture glue to help you hold them in if you have to. Some denture wearers never have to use anything to secure the teeth, while others have to use the glue daily. Loose dentures are even harder to get used to, so you want them to feel tight and secure. Experiment with several kinds of denture adhesive until you find the one you like. Just use a tiny bit at first to see how much works for you.

Ask your dentist what he/she recommends as a time out or resting period for your mouth. Some dentists advise their patients to remove the dentures nightly to let the mouth rest. Others say it is okay to wear them all of the time. If you take yours out to sleep, get used to the routine of brushing them and putting them back in the first thing every morning. Always keep them in a covered container filled with water when you are not wearing them.

Can I make minor adjustments or repairs to my denture?

You can do serious harm to your denture and to your health by trying to adjust or repair your denture by yourself. A denture that is not made to fit precisely by a dentist can cause irritation and sores. A person who lacks the proper training will not be able to reconstruct the denture. This can cause greater damage to the denture and may cause problems in your mouth. Using a do-it-yourself kit can damage the appliance beyond repair. Glues sold over-the-counter often contain harmful chemicals and should not be used on a denture.

If your denture no longer fits properly, if it breaks, cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose, see your dentist immediately. In many cases, dentists can make necessary adjustments or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require that the denture be sent to a special dental laboratory.