Partially removable jaw

1. What is a removable partial denture?

Removable partial dentures are a type of restoration A removable denture is a dental prosthesis that is used to replace several missing teeth in the mouth. It consists of artificial teeth mounted on a plastic or metal frame that can be easily removed and placed in the mouth. A partial denture is often used when a patient has lost several teeth but still has enough natural teeth to support the prosthesis.

2. Cases where removable partial dentures should be used

Removable partial dentures are indicated in the following cases:

• Partial tooth loss due to many causes such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, trauma
• Patients have many gaps due to missing teeth on the jaw.
• Not financially able to afford a fixed bridge or implant
• Need to restore chewing function and aesthetics after tooth loss

3. Advantages of removable partial dentures

3.1. Improve aesthetics

Removable partial dentures help restore the patient's facial shape and smile, especially when teeth are missing in the front area.

3.2. High level of benignity

This restoration is minimally invasive and does not cause damage to the remaining tooth tissue.

3.3. Enhance chewing ability

Removable partial dentures help restore chewing function, allowing patients to eat and drink more easily.

3.4. Improve pronunciation

Replacing missing teeth improves the patient's ability to speak.

3.5. Prevent tooth movement

Removable partial dentures help maintain the position of the remaining teeth, preventing unwanted movement.

3.6. Easy to maintain and clean

Patients can easily remove and clean dentures, helping to maintain better oral hygiene.

3.7. Cost savings

Compared with fixed prosthetic methods, removable partial dentures are significantly less expensive.

4. Disadvantages of removable partial dentures

4.1. Poor efficiency

Compared with implants or fixed bridges, removable partial dentures have lower functional recovery efficiency.

4.2. Low life expectancy

Removable partial dentures typically have a shorter lifespan than fixed restorations.

4.3. May cause obstruction or discomfort

Some patients find wearing dentures uncomfortable, especially in the beginning.

4.4. Poor chewing ability

The chewing force of a partial denture is lower than that of natural teeth or implants.

4.5. Cannot prevent bone loss

Removable partial dentures do not prevent alveolar bone loss after tooth loss.

5. How to make a removable partial denture?

5.1. Initial assessment

The doctor will examine and evaluate the patient's oral health, take X-rays and take jaw impressions.

5.2. Treatment plan

The doctor makes a detailed treatment plan and determines the appropriate type of denture.

5.3. Frame fabrication

The technician will fabricate a metal or plastic frame based on the patient's jaw model.

5.4. Tooth test

The patient will try on the temporary denture to ensure a good match in color, shape and size of the teeth.

5.5. Completion

The technician completes the denture after the patient and doctor agree.

5.6. Final installation and adjustment

The dentist will fit the denture and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the best comfort and function.

5.8. Follow-up care

Patients need to have regular check-ups to check and adjust dentures if necessary.

6. How long does a removable partial denture last?

The average lifespan of a removable partial denture is approximately 5-7 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, dentures can last longer. Factors that affect the lifespan of a denture include the quality of the materials, the manufacturing technique, and the patient's usage and hygiene habits.

7. Cost of removable partial dentures

The cost of a partial denture can vary depending on many factors such as the number of teeth to be replaced, the type of material used, and the location of the treatment. In Vietnam, this cost can range from a few million to tens of millions of VND, depending on each specific case. However, compared to fixed restoration methods such as implants or bridges, partial dentures are still a significantly lower cost option.