A metal frame partial denture is a removable partial denture (RPD) that 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 denture. It usually consists of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum colored plastic bases which are connected by a metal framework. In general, the metal framework consists of connectors, rest stops, and clasps built around your existing natural teeth. It is worth all efforts to save lower teeth so they can be used to support the metal frame during construction of a partial denture.
A partial denture will:· Replace missing natural teeth and 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.
Better durability is a big advantage of the metal frame partial over the acrylic partial. The higher cost, the need for the teeth preps for the metal frame rest stops and longer time needed to fabricate, would account for the disadvantages of the metal frame partial over the acrylic partial.
