Partial Dentures
A missing tooth or multiple teeth in an arch are replaced with a removable prosthesis. The prosthesis is comprised of a base of plastic with or without a cast metal frame. The denture teeth are attached to this base. The base will have hooks and attachments fitted to some of the existing natural teeth to provide support and retention for the denture.
Benefits:​
• Less expensive compared to dental implants or bridges.
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Disadvantages:​
• Relatively poor long-term stability (becomes loose over time). Poor esthetics due to presence of metal clasps (hooks).
• Variable comfort and function.
• Requires time for adjustment of having something large and foreign in the mouth.
• Natural teeth used as supports for the denture are at high risk of caries and occlusal trauma.
• No stimulation of the jaw bone in the area of the missing tooth – usually resulting in slow resorption of the jaw bone.