Last Updated on August 22, 2025
Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile. They can make chewing and speaking difficult, and even change the shape of your face. Dentures and partials are removable dental prosthetics used to replace missing teeth. Dentures are typically used when all teeth are missing in the upper or lower jaw, while partials are designed to fill spaces when some natural teeth are still present. Each option restores function, helps prevent further dental complications, and improves overall appearance. Understanding their role and differences can help you choose the right solution for your oral health needs.
Understanding Dentures and Partials
Dentures are full-arch prosthetic devices that replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both. They are custom-made to fit your gums and restore basic oral functions like chewing, speaking, and supporting the facial structure. Dentures rest directly on the gums and are typically removable, although implant-supported options exist for added stability.
Partials, on the other hand, are used when you still have some of your natural teeth. They fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and usually include a metal or acrylic base that attaches securely to your existing teeth. Partials help keep remaining teeth from shifting and allow for better chewing and speaking without needing a full denture.
Types of Dentures and Partials
Now that you understand the difference between full and partial dental prosthetics, let’s break down the specific types available for each so you can see what options best fit your needs.
Types of Dentures
Dentures come in multiple forms, each designed for different levels of tooth loss, comfort, and long-term use. Here are the most common types of dentures you may consider.
Complete Dentures
These replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They rest on the gums and are held in place by suction or denture adhesive. They are custom-fit and designed for daily removal and cleaning.
Immediate Dentures
Placed right after tooth extraction, these allow you to leave the dental office with teeth in place. While convenient, they usually need adjustments as the gums heal and change shape.
Overdentures
These rest on a few remaining natural teeth or dental implants, offering better stability than traditional complete dentures. They’re removable and often more comfortable for long-term wear.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Anchored by dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, these dentures provide a more secure fit and improved chewing strength. They can be removable or fixed, depending on the design.
Types of Partials
If you still have some healthy teeth, partial dentures may be the better option. Let’s go over the types of partials and how they differ in material, comfort, and support.
Removable Acrylic Partials
These are made from pink acrylic and are often used as a temporary or transitional solution. They’re cost-effective but may feel bulkier than other types.
Cast Metal Partials
Constructed with a metal framework and acrylic teeth, these are more durable and offer a precise fit. They attach to natural teeth with clasps and are commonly used for long-term wear.
Flexible Partials
Made from lightweight, flexible material, these adapt comfortably to your mouth and blend well with natural gum tissue. They’re a good choice for patients who may be sensitive to acrylic or metal.
Implant-Supported Partials
These use dental implants as anchors, providing a more stable and secure option. They’re ideal for patients looking for enhanced comfort and support with fewer natural teeth.
Benefits of Dentures and Partials
Beyond restoring your smile, both dentures and partials offer functional and aesthetic advantages. Here’s a closer look at the unique benefits of each option.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer more than just a cosmetic fix. These are some of the key ways they help improve everyday life and long-term oral health.
- Restore chewing and speaking ability: Dentures improve your ability to eat a variety of foods and speak more clearly in daily conversation.
- Improve facial appearance: They help maintain the shape of your face by supporting facial muscles, reducing a sunken look.
- Removable for cleaning: You can take them out at night or for cleaning, which helps with hygiene and maintenance.
- Variety of support options: From traditional suction-based to implant-supported models, there’s flexibility in how they’re secured.
- Custom fit and natural look: Modern dentures are designed to match your gums and smile for a realistic appearance and comfortable feel.
Benefits of Partials
If you’re considering partials, here are the specific benefits they provide—especially when you still have a few of your natural teeth intact.
- Preserve natural teeth: Partials fill in gaps and prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
- Improve chewing efficiency: They make eating easier and more balanced when only a few teeth are missing.
- Affordable and less invasive: Compared to implants, partials require less work and cost, making them accessible to more patients.
- Flexible and lightweight options: Some models are designed for better comfort using softer, more adaptable materials.
- Easy to adjust or repair: If needed, teeth can be added or parts replaced without having to remake the entire piece.
Conclusion
Understanding what dentures and partials are is key to making the right choice when replacing missing teeth. Dentures restore full arches when all teeth are gone, while partials are designed to fit around remaining natural teeth and prevent them from shifting. Both options come in several forms and offer practical benefits, whether you need improved chewing, clearer speech, or better facial support.
If you’re not sure which solution fits your needs best, the team at Riverview Dental Arts can help guide you through the process and recommend a comfortable, effective restoration for your smile.