Your dentist may recommend a removable partial denture for you if you are suffering from missing teeth, but what does this mean for you?

A partial denture is just what is sounds: A removable tray of fake teeth that will cover the gap left by your missing teeth. Partial dentures bring several benefits along with them, including making it easier for you to chew and eat. A partial denture can also help you speak naturally again if your missing teeth have altered your speech.

Removable partial dentures also help support your cheeks and lips, preventing your facial features from sagging. However, the use of partial dentures goes far beyond these basic reasons.

When you lose a tooth, it’s likely that the teeth around the new gap will gradually begin tilting or shifting into the empty space. When this happens, the other teeth in your mouth may begin shifting up or down towards this area as well. When your teeth shift like this, your bite is likely to be affected and you’ll begin putting more stress on your teeth and jaw bones. With shifted teeth, you may also have difficulty cleaning them or experience heightening the risk of gum disease and/or tooth decay.

Partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth that have been fixed to an acrylic base, made to match the natural color of your gums. The acrylic base may be used to cover up the metal framework. Your partial dentures may have a clasp to attach to your natural teeth and hold them in place. Otherwise, your dentist is likely to recommend dental crowns on your remaining natural teeth to secure your partial dentures into the right location.

With your partial dentures placed, you can begin eating, speaking, and caring for your teeth like new again. To learn if partial dentures in Murrells Inlet are right for you, contact our office today and schedule an appointment with our dental team.