This type of replacement is often used when one or more healthy natural teeth remain in the area to support the denture. Patients are able to eat, speak and smile without difficulty once partial dentures are in place.

These devices may be fixed or removable, depending on the preference and oral health of the patient. Regardless of the type, partial dentures are precisely fitted to replace the missing teeth in a patient’s mouth for improved comfort and functionality. Placement of partial dentures is performed by a dentist over a series of visits spaced several weeks apart.

Partial dentures require the same oral care, including twice-a-day brushing and regular cleanings, as natural teeth. Over time, partial dentures may require minor adjustments that can easily be made by a dentist.

Additional Resources

• Mouth Healthy
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
• Medline Plus
• National Institutes of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
• WebMD