An acrylic partial denture can be made when 2 or more of patient’s natural teeth remain in his/her upper or lower jaw, and can be used to anchor the partial. This removable partial denture usually consists of replacement teeth set in pink or gum colored acrylic resin. One or more wire clasps are placed around the natural teeth to assist in retention of the partial denture. Sometimes the metal rests are placed on the natural teeth to prevent the acrylic partial from putting too much pressure on the gums during chewing. It is worth all efforts to save lower teeth, so they can be used to support the partial denture.An acrylic partial denture will:
· Replace missing natural teeth to restore your smile.
· Prevent “drifting” of teeth (if the missing teeth are not restored after extractions, the remaining natural teeth will move or “drift” creating spaces between them).
· Improve your bite and speech.
· Make chewing easier and more comfortable.
Advantages of the acrylic partial denture vs. metal frame partial:
· Significantly lower cost,
· No need for the teeth preps as needed for the metal frame rest stops,
· Shorter time needed to fabricate.
Disadvantages of the acrylic partial vs. metal frame partial:
· Lower durability,
· Acrylic partial restoring back teeth on the lower jaw, in the beginning may feel a little bulky behind the lower front teeth, as acrylic connector is thicker than a metal frame connector. It usually does not take very long for the patient to get used to it though.
Acrylic partial is many times called a “temporary partial" or a "flipper", but depending on the use and care, and if made well, it may serve the patient many, many years.
See also Acrylic Partial - Part II
