If you are missing a tooth, don't resign yourself to the situation. There is a solution available in the form of a partial denture. Partial dentures will likely become the standard tooth replacement option in the near future. Though the average dentist does not perform this procedure at a high frequency, it is effective and rapidly growing in popularity.

What Are Partial Dentures?

This oral health device consists of a metal framework along with acrylic or plastic. We place the metal framework across the roof of the mouth and have it extend along the lower jaw/back portion of the teeth. The framework then hooks onto the remaining teeth. The hooks clasp to keep the partial denture firmly in place. This is why your dentist places the hooks on stable and healthy teeth. The denture tooth is placed in acrylic to replace the missing tooth.


There is also a newer variety of partial dentures that are more aesthetically pleasing. This option is known as a "flexible" denture. Consisting of thermoplastic, it is completely pink and clear in color. This newer version does not make use of any sort of metal framework. The flexible denture relies on a thin prosthesis that is much lighter than the metal variety. This flexible denture does not break nearly as easily as the conventional variety.

The Procedure

Replacing a single tooth with a partial denture will likely require a minimum of two visits with one or two weeks between each visit. The initial visit is to create the impression. The next visit is for the placement of the partial denture. We will make the partial denture during this period of time. However, certain types of partial dentures, like the flexite partial, can be available in a single day.

Common FAQs

Will adjacent teeth be ground down?

While with some treatments we may need to grind down teeth, we do not grind down teeth with removable partial dentures.

Will a partial denture affect my speech or eating?

There is a chance that the partial denture will slightly impact speech and eating. However, there is less chance of a partial denture affecting such actions when replacing a single tooth as opposed to multiple teeth.

Will the partial denture alter my face or my smile?

There is a small chance the bone beneath the removable partial denture might deteriorate as time progresses. If such deterioration occurs, the appearance of your face or smile can change slightly. There is also a chance that the partial denture clasp will be visible when you smile.

Is a partial denture expensive?

In relation to other potential solutions, partial dentures are extraordinarily cheap. In fact, they are widely considered the cheapest available treatment option.

Contact Us

At Ready 2 Smile Dental Group, our staff has helped provide partial dentures for countless patients. If you live in the Temecula area, call (951) 695-1870 to schedule your dental exam so that you can remain in good health or receive treatment for a current condition. We look forward to helping you get the smile you deserve!