Dentures are false teeth that are used to replace natural teeth that had been lost. A denture consists of prosthetic teeth that are attached to a base. The base is typically pink in color to give the illusion of natural gingival tissue.

Dentures can be full or partial. A full denture is designed to replace all of the teeth of a palate. However, a partial denture is prescribed when multiple teeth have been lost from the upper or lower palate, but some natural teeth still remain.

Here is a bit of information about upper partial dentures to help you understand more about them.

How Is a Partial Denture Held in Place?

Although a full upper denture may be held in position primarily by the suction created as the base sits flush against the roof of the mouth, a partial upper or lower denture typically includes connectors. The connectors are usually clasps or attachments that are a part of a metal framework that can connect to the teeth.

Are Changes to Your Natural Teeth Required for Partial Dentures?

Sometimes, crowns are applied to the natural teeth to help the partial fit more precisely and to allow the use of attachments without damage to the natural tooth enamel.

Is There a Set Amount of Time That the Partial Should Remain In or Out of the Mouth?

Once your partial has been prepared, your dentist will give you detailed instructions concerning how long you should wear the device and how often you should remove it. Nevertheless, your provider may request that you wear the partial around the clock initially. The lengthy wear time allows the dentist to quickly identify problem areas that may require an adjustment.

How Do You Know If a Partial Is Fitting Properly?

If a partial denture is not fitting as it should, you will generally experience some discomfort. If the soft tissues become sore in a certain area due to localized pressure, your dentist can adjust the device for a more comfortable fit.

Once the adjustments to the device are complete, you will likely be instructed to remove the device before bed each night. The partial can be placed back into the mouth each morning.

How Do You Clean a Partial Denture?

Denture cleansers are available over the counter. Your dentist will likely suggest a cleanser for your device.

A partial denture can be cleaned with hand soap or a dishwashing detergent. However, a partial should not be cleaned with toothpaste. The paste is too abrasive for the plastic components of the device and can cause small scratches that can collect oral bacteria.

To learn more about partial dentures, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.