Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-coloured plastic bases, which are connected by metal framework. Removable partial dentures attach to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. Precision attachments are generally more aesthetic than metal clasps and they are nearly invisible, as well as more expensive. Crowns on your natural teeth may improve the fit of a removable partial denture, and they are usually required with attachments.
As an alternative to bridges and implants, dentures can be used to replace several missing teeth.
It is possible to get either full or partial dentures. Full dentures remain in place by form fitting to the gum ridges. This creates a strong suction that is usually enough to keep them comfortably in place.
Partial dentures often have additional ridges that fit around the natural teeth helping them stay in place. To secure dentures more firmly to the gum ridge, a dental implant can be used.
Implants used for an overdenture are fitted with a ball screw. This allows the denture to be firmly snapped into place.
It takes several visits to the dentist in order to be properly fitted with a denture. The dentist will take several impressions of the gums, and send these to a dental lab. The lab uses these impressions to construct your dentures. On the next appointments you and your dentist will check the dentures to ensure that your fit is correct and that the dentures meet your approval.