Partial Dentures – Costa Mesa, CA
Your teeth are an important part of your body. There are times when you lose one or two teeth due to various circumstances, such as an accident, illness, poor oral hygiene, or the need for extraction by a dentist. Regardless of how your tooth was lost, it can be an awkward situation, as smiling with missing teeth can be embarrassing.
Thankfully, we offer restorative dentistry treatments to solve this problem, such as bridges and dentures for patients who are missing one, some, or all of their natural teeth. These types of prosthetics can be partial sets or complete sets (traditional dentures). The type of denture you need depends on the number of missing teeth.
Removable partials are an excellent solution for restoring your ability to smile and chew food. They also help to maintain the natural contour of your mouth and minimize the risk of gum problems. Additionally, partials prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into empty spaces and relieve excessive stress on your jaws.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are used when a patient has lost one, two, or several teeth in succession. They can be made using several methods, and the same number of false teeth can be attached to a metallic frame to fill in the gaps.
Partials vs. Traditional Full Sets
If you’re unsure which option is best for you, it’s important to know that both treatments serve different needs, and each has its own pros and cons. Below are the differences between partials and full dentures:
- Function: Complete sets are required when a patient has lost most or all teeth in a jaw. Partials are designed to replace one or more missing teeth in a jaw.
- Extraction: Partials are often used to preserve existing teeth, as they only replace the missing ones. Full sets require removal of all remaining teeth.
- Permanent or Removable: Partials can be fixed or removable. Fixed partial dentures are also called dental bridges, which are supported by implants. Traditional dentures are usually removable.
- Price: Partials cost less than a complete set. The cost of extractions is also a factor with full dentures, whereas partials typically don’t require extractions.
- Stability: Partials offer greater stability because they are supported by adjacent natural teeth, soft tissues, and jawbones. Traditional dentures rely solely on soft tissues and jawbones for retention.
Types of Partial Dentures & Materials
There are various types of partial dentures, each made from different materials. The best type for you depends on your comfort, aesthetic preference, and budget. Here are some available options:
- Cast Metal Removable: This is the most common type of partial denture due to its strength and durability. It is attached to the support teeth using metallic wire clasps. More aesthetic attachments are available but tend to be more expensive. With proper care, cast metal removable dentures can last for many years.
- Acrylic Removable (Flipper): This is the cheapest type of partial denture, but it is less durable. The acrylic base must be thicker and bulkier to reduce the risk of breakage. Metal clasps attach the denture to teeth, which may be visible when talking or smiling. Flippers are often used as temporary solutions while waiting for permanent restorations, but they can last for years before needing replacement.
- Flexible Partial Dentures: These are best for patients who find rigid bases uncomfortable. The base is made of a thin, heat-sensitive, flexible nylon material. The clasps are gum-colored, making them blend naturally with the gums for a more aesthetic appearance.
- Fixed Bridge: A fixed bridge is a permanent restoration for replacing one or two teeth. It consists of artificial teeth with crowns on either side that fit onto surrounding healthy teeth for support. Because the supporting teeth are trimmed, this solution is strong and durable.
- Implant-Supported Fixed Bridge: Unlike traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges do not require existing teeth for support. Instead, titanium implants are placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. When enough implants are placed, full-mouth restorations can be achieved. Implant-supported bridges are permanent, durable, and free of dietary restrictions.
At Dentistry At Its Finest, we recommend implant-supported removable or fixed dentures because they are durable, comfortable, and look more natural than any other prosthetic option. However, if you’re unsure which is best for you, feel free to ask us any questions—we’re happy to help!
How Much Do Partial Dentures Cost?
The cost of partial dentures varies depending on:
- Number of teeth replaced
- Type of material used
- Location (Upper/Lower jaw)
General Cost Estimates:
- $400 – $1,800 per arch
- Dental insurance may help cover the cost
Schedule an appointment today to discuss your options.
Costa Mesa, Partial Dentures
If you’re looking for comfortable and natural-looking partial dentures, we’d love to help restore your smile and confidence.
We proudly offer California Dentures to our local community.
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Partial Dentures FAQ
What Are the Best Partial Dentures to Get?
The best partial dentures depend on your needs and preferences. Many patients prefer flexible partial dentures because they are light, thin, and more comfortable compared to acrylic dentures.
Do Partial Dentures Look Natural?
Yes! Removable partials are designed to blend naturally with the gums. The base color matches the gum tissue, and the metal or flexible connectors hold them securely in place.
Using high-quality materials helps partial dentures look more natural.
Check out How much do partial dentures cost?
What’s Better: A Bridge or a Partial?
Both bridges and partials are great solutions for tooth replacement.
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Bridges are permanent and attach to surrounding teeth.
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Partials are removable and ideal when surrounding teeth aren’t strong enough to support a bridge.
Do Partial Dentures Damage Teeth?
A removable partial denture can lead to plaque buildup, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. It can also cause stress on abutment teeth. However, proper oral hygiene and denture care can help prevent these issues.
Can You Eat with Partial Dentures?
Yes! However, it takes time to adjust to eating with partials.
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Start with soft foods
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Cut food into small bites
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Avoid hard foods (e.g., apples, nuts, tough meats, and popcorn)
Are Partial Dentures Worth It?
Yes! Any tooth replacement helps prevent bone loss and oral health problems.
How Much Do Partial Dentures Cost for 2 Teeth?
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$600 – $800
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Cost varies by material and location.
How Much Does a 3-Tooth Partial Cost?
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$700 – $900
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Cost depends on materials and location.
How Much Is a Flexible Partial Denture?
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$800 – $3,000
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Depends on material and number of missing teeth.
Partial Dentures Near Me – Costa Mesa, CA
Looking for partial dentures near you?
Choosing a dentist close to home, work, or school saves time and money.
Call (714) 540-5511 to schedule an appointment today!
