Types of Partial Dentures Available at Florida Dental Centers in Clearwater, FL

Types of Partial Dentures Clearwater FLMuch like full dentures, partial dentures (dental bridges) can replace missing teeth. While full dentures can take the place of all natural teeth, partials are custom-designed to replace one or more missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. If you’d like to fill a gap in your smile, the dentists at Florida Dental Centers in Clearwater, Florida, can help you decide which type of partial denture is right for you.

Fixed vs. Removable Partial Dentures

The two main types of partial dentures are fixed and removable. Here is some general information about each:

  1. Fixed partial denture – A fixed dental bridge can be an excellent solution for replacing one or two missing teeth if there is a healthy tooth at each end of the gap. A fixed bridge consists of two dental crowns separated by one or two replacement teeth (pontics). The crowns are affixed to the natural teeth adjacent to the empty space, and the pontics fill in that space. A fixed bridge remains in the mouth at all times and is brushed just like natural teeth (dental floss and a threader can be used to clean the space underneath the pontics).
  2. Removable partial denture – A removable dental bridge, which consists of one or more replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base, can be used to fill a gap between two healthy teeth. A removable bridge is held in place by metal clasps that wrap around the natural teeth adjacent to the empty space. To minimize stress on the teeth and gums, a removable bridge must be taken out of the mouth and cleaned every night.

Both fixed and removable partial dentures offer a number of benefits. In addition to supporting the face and providing an aesthetic improvement, partial dentures can make it easier to chew and speak, lower the risk of periodontal disease, and reduce pressure on the jaw.

Learn More

If you’d like to talk with a dentist about partial dentures, contact Florida Dental Centers to schedule an appointment at our office in Clearwater, FL. We look forward to meeting all of your oral healthcare needs.