The Markiewicz Dental Difference with Partial Dentures
Drs. Anthony and David Markiewicz are high skilled in restorative dentistry including fabricating both upper and lower partial dentures. Partial dentures are a good and economical solution for patients who are missing some but not all teeth in an arch. Although partial dentures can take time to get used to, today’s partials are more natural and comfortable than ever. Our dentists at Markiewicz Dental use only the highest quality laboratories when fabricating partial dentures. While most partial dentures in the past have been fabricated using metal frameworks, we offer a new generation of partials that have no metal – we call these our second nature partials.
What is a partial denture?
Partial dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and hence can be taken in and out of the mouth. Partial dentures are made for patients who are missing some (but not all) teeth in an arch. Partial dentures are often an economical alternative to patients who cannot or do not wish to get dental implants. They consist of a metal or non-metal frameworks, which have clasps or hooks that latch onto the remaining teeth for support and retention. Upon the framework, acrylic and denture teeth are added to replace the patient’s missing teeth.
Partial dentures without any metal!
In the past, the only option for patients receiving partial dentures included a metal framework. Although these metal partials have worked well, patients often report they are heavy, bulky, and can have a metallic taste associated with them. At Markiewicz Dental, we work with a local high quality lab to fabricate metal-free partials for our patients. Instead of using metal as the framework for a partial, we use Zirlux Acetal, a millable thermoplastic material that is strong, flexible, and more comfortable. Although we still do make metal partials, most patient’s prefer these new metal-free partial dentures.
The Markiewicz Dental patient below was missing teeth in both the upper and lower arches. Non-metal partial were fabricated for both arches to replace his missing teeth. If you look closely, you can see some of the clear clasps attached to his remaining teeth. In traditional partials, these clasps would have been metal and hence much more visible. These partial dentures are an economical and safe way to replace your missing teeth!
What is the process when having a partial denture made at Markiewicz Dental?
Fabricating well-fitting and good-looking dentures requires multiple steps. Correctly fabricating full dentures requires diligent planning and try-in appointments. The following are the basic steps and appointments involved in having a full denture made at our office:
Appointment #1: Initial impressions – These impressions are used to create a custom impression tray that will be used to take your final impressions.
Appointment #2: Final impressions – Your final impressions are used to create a model of your dental arches. This is what will be used to ensure the fit and size of your dentures is accurate.
Appointment #3: Framework Try-in – At this appointment, a custom metal or non-metal framework will be tried-in the mouth.
Appointment #4: Tooth Try-in – Per your preference for tooth shape, size, and color, denture teeth are added to the partial framework. If you desire any changes to the look or feel of the partial denture, they can be made at this time prior to delivery.
Appointment #5: Partial Denture Delivery! – At this visit, you are given your final partial denture(s)! It frequently can take many weeks or months to get used to your new dentures.
Follow-up adjustment appointments are necessary once you begin wearing your new dentures.
How long will your partial denture last?
Over a period of time, your partial dentures will need to be re-lined, re-based or re-made due to natural wear. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit and function of your denture. Since the longevity of your partial denture is directly associated with your remaining teeth, it is encouraged to have regular dental visits and check-ups.
Post-operative instructions following a partial denture
It can take many weeks or months to become fully adjusted to your new denture. Basic functions, like speaking and eating, will initially be difficult or feel strange. This is normal! No matter how good the patient or the denture, it will take time to become aquatinted with your new dentures. We encourage patients to practice speaking by reading a newspaper or book out-loud to themselves with the dentures in place. Like wearing a new pair of shoes, you may also develop blisters (aka sore spots) in the mouth. If sore spots develop, we encourage you to call your dentist to schedule an adjustment appointment.
