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If you have a few missing teeth, it may be difficult to imagine the positive effect partial dentures may have on you. While you may have gotten used to eating and speaking without those teeth, partial dentures can improve your speaking, eating, and overall dental health. Today, your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, will discuss partial dentures and how they might be the right choice for restoring the appearance and function of your smile.

Dentures vs. Partial Dentures

Like dentures, partial dentures (often simply referred to as “partials”) can reduce your risk for developing common dental problems associated with missing teeth, such as TMJ, further tooth loss, tooth decay, and gum disease. Unlike full dentures, partial dentures can be placed next to healthy teeth almost like the missing piece of a jigsaw puzzle. If the majority of your teeth are in perfectly good condition, then partials might be the best option for you. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris will complete a dental examination and listen to your concerns in order to determine the best course of action for you.

A Few Benefits of Partial Dentures

One of the primary benefits of partials is that they provide immediate relief to many of the problems associated with missing teeth. For instance:

  • When teeth are missing from the dental arch, the remaining teeth shift and move toward the empty space. This shifting can make it difficult to adequately clean the remaining teeth which, in turn, can increase the risk for gum disease and tooth decay. Partials help maintain proper spacing.
  • While it may take a while to get used to wearing a partial in your mouth, it will eventually feel like a natural part of your smile. Speaking clearly is just one of the positive effects of partials. If you do have difficulty speaking, practice with your new partials by reading aloud daily.
  • You will find comfort and ease in completing one of your favorite daily habits: eating! If you struggled with eating certain foods due to missing teeth, your partials will help. Take it slow at first by choosing soft foods. Avoid foods that may hamper you’re your dentures like sticky candy. With practice, you can return to a normal, healthy variety of foods

Stop in for a Visit with Your Mansfield Dentist

The only way to determine if partials or full dentures are right for you is to visit your Mansfield area dentist. Come by our office and let Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris determine which is best.  They will make you feel at ease and take time to listen to your concerns. We don’t look at our clients as customers, but as friends we hope to keep for life. Stop in or call 817-437-5152 to make an appointment.