Partial Dentures
If you have several missing teeth, partial dentures may be an ideal restorative treatment to fill in the gaps in your smile. Dr. Byron Nordhus offers partial dentures at his Wichita, KS, dental practice, which serves patients throughout West Wichita. Dr. Nordhus has more than 15 years of experience and treats all of his patients like family.
What Is a Partial Denture?
Partial dentures consist of artificial teeth that are affixed to a gum-colored base. They can be removable or implant-retained. Common types of partial dentures offered at our Wichita office include:
- Cast metal removable dentures: This common denture has an acrylic base that holds a partial row of artificial teeth. The denture is held in place by small metal clasps that attach to neighboring teeth. Each denture is customized to meet the needs of a patient.
- Acrylic removable dentures: This slightly more economical solution is made from acrylic rather than cast metal.
- Flexible dentures: A flexible denture is made from nylon resin. This option is considered more suitable for individuals who have an allergy to cast metal or acrylic.
- Implant-supported dentures: Implant-supported dentures require a more substantial investment of time and money, but many patients find the results to be far superior. Rather than attaching to neighboring teeth, this prosthetic attaches directly to the jawbone via the implant, which is a titanium post that fuses to the bone tissue. One important benefit of this option is that an implant-supported denture will never slip out of place. This option also prevents jawbone recession, a natural side effect of tooth loss. The implants provide the stimulation necessary to retain bone tissue in this area.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures offer the following benefits:
- Restoration of your smile
- Prevention of nearby teeth shifting
- Improved quality of life
- Fuller cheeks (rather than the "sunken" look that can result from tooth loss)
What to Expect during Treatment
During the initial consultation at our Wichita dental practice, Dr. Nordhus will take X-rays or other images of your teeth and jawbone to assess your oral health. Any tooth decay or other issues must be resolved before placing your denture. To manufacture your partial denture, Dr. Nordhus will take an impression (mold) of your dental arches. A trusted laboratory will fabricate your new partial denture over a two- to four-week period. Once your prosthetic arrives, a second appointment will be made to place your denture and ensure that it is a proper fit.
Dr. Nordhus has more than 15 years of experience and treats all of his patients like family.
Implant-supported partial dentures require a preliminary surgery in which the implants are placed in the jaw. Dr. Nordhus offers multiple sedation options (oral sedatives, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation) to help patients feel comfortable during treatment. There is usually a three- to six-month recovery period after this procedure. Once the implants have fused to the jaw, a small metal device called an abutment will be placed on each implant. The partial denture will be attached to the abutments.
Contact Us Today
Dr. Nordhus will be glad to answer any questions you have about this or our other restorative treatments. If you are ready to schedule a visit to our office, contact us online or call (316) 778-6543.
