How Are Partial Dentures Made?

Partial dentures are the solution for those of you who are missing several adjacent teeth and do not opt for implants or bridges. The partial denture is like a small set of teeth that has clasps to hold it in place or can be cemented like full dentures. For a brief description of how partial dentures are made, read on.

Making Molds

A mold is cast of your entire mouth, both arches and how they relate to each other. The space between your arches when they are at rest measures your bite pattern. Once a mold is made of your teeth, your dentist has to only make small adjustments to ensure your dentures are comfortable. The shade of your natural teeth is then matched with enamel shades so that your dentures will match. The mold is then sent to a dental laboratory.

Acrylic and Metal

Sometimes dentures are made of all acrylic and sometimes they are made with both acrylic and metal. Both processes require a wax mold which is made from the negative mold of your mouth, so that the partial denture is sure to fit snugly and comfortably in the gap it is made for. At the laboratory the mold is either cast with metal and then the acrylic form is added or the entire mold is used as a model for acrylic. The synthetic teeth are then rooted and clasps are added.

Partial Dentures

Once the metal pieces are cast and polished and the synthetic teeth are check for flaws and proper shade, the partial dentures are polished. Once you have your partial dentures it is recommended that you wear them daily to allow your gums and the dentures to conform to each other. The partial dentures should fit but not put too much pressure on adjacent teeth. If your partial dentures need adjusting do not do it yourself; rather, see a dentist.