What Are Partial Dentures and Who Needs Them?

Smile Stop Dentures and Implants
Jul 1
4 min read

Close-up of a person's smiling mouth, showing white teeth and pink lipstick, against a white background. — Smile Stop Dentures & Implants on What Are Partial Dentures and Who Needs Them?

Losing one or more teeth can impact your confidence, your ability to chew, and even your speech. Fortunately, there are affordable and effective solutions to restore your smile. One of the most common options is partial dentures—a removable dental appliance that fills in the gaps caused by missing teeth. If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for implants or full dentures, partial dentures might be exactly what you need.

In this blog, we’ll break down what partial dentures are, how they work, and who can benefit from them. Whether you're considering your first set of dentures or just exploring your options, this guide is here to help.

What Are Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike full dentures, which replace an entire arch of teeth, partials are used when some natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw.

They consist of:

A gum-colored acrylic or metal base that sits on your gums
Artificial teeth attached to the base, made from materials that mimic natural enamel
Clasps or precision attachments that anchor the denture to your existing teeth

Partials are custom-made for each patient to fit comfortably and function naturally.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Partial Dentures?

You might be a good candidate for partial dentures if:

You’re missing several teeth but still have healthy ones remaining
You want a non-surgical, affordable solution
Your jaw and gums are healthy enough to support a removable device
You’re looking for a faster alternative to implants

Partial dentures are especially helpful for patients who aren’t candidates for dental implants due to bone loss or other health issues. They also work well for people who want a less invasive option.

Benefits of Partial Dentures

There are many reasons patients choose partial dentures. Here are some of the most important benefits:

1. Restore Your Smile

Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious. Partial dentures fill in those gaps and help you smile with confidence again.

2. Improve Chewing and Speech

Teeth play a big role in how you eat and speak. Replacing missing ones can improve your ability to chew food and pronounce words clearly.

3. Prevent Shifting Teeth

When there’s a gap in your smile, nearby teeth can start to shift into that space. Partials help keep your remaining teeth in their proper position.

4. Non-Invasive and Affordable

Partial dentures don’t require surgery, and they’re often more budget-friendly than implants or bridges.

5. Custom Fit

Each set is made to match the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a comfortable and seamless fit.

Types of Partial Dentures

There are a few different types of partials, and the right one depends on your needs:

1. Removable Acrylic Partials

Often used as a temporary solution

Made from a pink acrylic base with plastic teeth
Less expensive, but may be bulkier

2. Removable Cast Metal Partials

Stronger and thinner than acrylic models

Made with a metal framework and acrylic overlay
Long-lasting and more comfortable for daily wear

3. Flexible Partials

Made from a flexible plastic material

No metal clasps—blends better with your gums
Lightweight and comfortable, but not as durable long-term

Your dentist will recommend the best type based on your oral health, number of missing teeth, and personal preferences.

The Process of Getting Partial Dentures

Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. Dental Exam and Impressions

Your dentist will first examine your mouth and take impressions to create a model of your bite. This ensures a good fit and alignment.

2. Tooth Prep (if needed)

If any damaged or loose teeth need to be removed or treated before fitting, that will be done first.

3. Fitting the Framework

Once the base is ready, you’ll try on the framework. Adjustments will be made to improve the fit and bite.

4. Final Denture Placement

The final set of partial dentures will be placed, and your dentist will check for comfort and function. Minor adjustments may follow.

Adjusting to Partial Dentures

Like anything new, wearing partials takes some getting used to. During the first few days or weeks:

Your mouth may feel sore or “full”
Speaking and eating might feel awkward at first
Saliva flow may increase temporarily

Stick with it—most people adjust in a couple of weeks. If discomfort continues, visit your dentist to check the fit.

Caring for Your Partial Dentures

Proper care helps extend the life of your dentures and protects your remaining natural teeth.

Here are a few care tips:

Remove and rinse your partials after eating
Brush daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste)
Soak overnight in a denture solution or plain water to prevent drying out
Handle with care to avoid bending or cracking
Continue seeing your dentist regularly for checkups

Avoid using hot water to clean them—it can warp the material.

When to Replace or Reline

Over time, your gums and bone structure may change, affecting how your dentures fit. If your partials feel loose, cause discomfort, or no longer line up properly, it might be time to have them relined or replaced.

Most partials last between 5 to 10 years with proper care.

Final Thoughts

Partial dentures are a trusted solution for many people with missing teeth. They offer a way to improve both function and appearance without surgery or a high cost. If you still have some healthy teeth and want to fill in the gaps, this option could be right for you.

At Smile Stop Dentures & Implants, we’re here to guide you through the process—from your first consultation to helping you feel confident with your smile again.

Ready to learn more about partial dentures?

Call us today to schedule a visit and take the first step toward restoring your smile.