Temporary teeth

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If you are missing teeth, you have, basically, three options to replace them:

1.  Removable partial denture
2.  Fixed bridge
3.  Fixed implant

I'm going to discuss #1 today.

Removable partial dentures, for many, are the only affordable option to replace a missing tooth, or, missing teeth. These allow you to eat more naturally, and preserve the teeth that have been baring the brunt of There are, basically, two types: temporary and permanent

The temporary type is sometimes called an "interim" partial, or, "flipper", because it's lighter,  easier to remove, and meant for short-term use. Stability is dependent on the plastic, gum colored material. This type does NOT have a cast metal framework.

The permanent type is more stable (due to the metal framework) and less bulky because the metal can be thinner than plastic. These are considered permanent because they can last for decades.

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There are metal-free, permanent, partial dentures available, which are bio-compatible for many with metals sensitivity. The metal-free partials are nice looking, but have their drawbacks, also. In particular, because these partials flex, food can become trapped between the plastic and the gums while eating. Therefore, it's important to brush your teeth AND your partial after eating.

It's important to remember that any removable partial, or full denture is NOT a replacement for teeth; it is a replacement for NO TEETH. Everyone's mouth is different, so at the delivery appointment,  expect to wait while the doctor adjusts the appliance for comfort and function. It may take a few tries to achieve perfect fit, so be patient.

For some, the adjustment is lingual-- related to speech.  If you are older, the reality of wearing a partial denture after a lifetime of NOT wearing one, you will need to allow a couple of weeks for your TONGUE to adjust. You should practice reading out loud for one hour per day, minimum, until your speech improves. (SEE TOP) This is really important for people in communications who make a living by talking.

Next stop on the tooth replacement train....FIXED BRIDGES!!!