When Can I Get a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth?

A partial denture for one missing tooth is a good solution for many people who are not happy with the appearance of their smile. Most people can get a partial denture in two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist takes a mold of the mouth and sends off the cast to create a customized denture. The dentist will place the denture in the second visit.

When partial dentures are appropriate

Partial dentures can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. They look and function similarly to natural teeth so you can feel comfortable with your smile and maintain your oral health. Dentists recommend partial dentures for three main reasons.

Aesthetic reasons

If you are missing one of your front teeth, you may be self-conscious about the appearance of your smile. Partial dentures mimic the look and feel of natural teeth and can be customized to match the exact shade of your natural teeth. This makes it nearly impossible for other people to know which of your teeth are natural and which ones are dentures. Getting a partial denture for one missing tooth is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile and boost your confidence.

Functional reasons

Not only are teeth important for aesthetic reasons, but they also play an important role in basic oral functions such as chewing and speaking. If you are missing any teeth, you may not be able to chew foods properly. You may need to change your diet to consist of entirely soft and pureed foods if you cannot chew food well. Missing teeth can also affect the way you pronounce certain words. If you are having trouble speaking or chewing and you are missing one or more teeth, your dentist may recommend a partial denture for one missing tooth.

Health reasons

When you are missing a tooth, your other teeth may shift as you age. This can drastically affect the appearance of your smile. It can also make chewing more difficult because your teeth are in different positions that are not optimal for grinding food. You can opt not to get a partial denture for one missing tooth to try to save money, but this decision will likely lead you to need more extensive dental work in the future. Placing a denture in the missing tooth's spot is a good way to preserve your oral health and prevent your natural teeth from shifting.