Full or Partial Dentures to Restore Chewing Function

If you have missing teeth from gum disease or tooth decay, you would benefit from learning about full or partial dentures. Not only do dentures help restore appearance, but they can help improve your speaking. In the case of partial dentures, these support any remaining teeth as well. Additionally, dentures can help restore your chewing function. There are differences between full and partial dentures when it comes to chewing function, though. The type of denture you decide to get depends on your oral health and the recommendation of your dentist.

Partial dentures

Partial dentures are designed for patients who still have some natural teeth and are looking for a way to keep their smile and ability to chew and speak normally. Like any type of denture, though, partial dentures take time to get used to. However, with practice and patience, partial dentures are easier to adjust to than other types of dentures. When it comes to chewing function, partial dentures work better than others because they support the remaining teeth and are often held in place with wires or implants. Because of this, the partial dentures do not tend to shift around as much while a patient is chewing.

Full dentures

Full dentures are meant for patients who have no more natural teeth. These dentures are a great way for patients to reclaim their speaking and chewing function. Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are made from acrylic or plastic that match the color of a patient’s gums. The dentures are molded to fit a patient’s mouth and rely on the patient’s saliva, gums, tongue and muscles to form a seal to help anchor the dentures in place.

While full dentures are a great option for patients without teeth, these dentures are not as efficient as partial dentures when it comes to chewing function. Because full dentures are not anchored in place with implants, they may shift when a patient’s mouth becomes dry. Full denture wearers also have to be more mindful of the way food is chewed. As a result, there is more of an adjustment period for full dentures.

Tips for chewing with dentures

No matter what type of dentures a patient has, there will always be some sort of adjustment period. Learning to speak and chew properly after getting dentures will take any denture wearer patience and a lot of practice to master. However, there are a few tips to help beginners get started. Some of these tips include the following:

• Avoid biting with the front teeth
• Push food to the side of the mouth while chewing
• Chew slowly
• Cut food in small pieces
• Start with soft foods
• Avoid sticky and hard foods

Make the choice between partial or full dentures today

If you are thinking about getting dentures because you struggle with chewing, you should know which type of denture is suitable for your mouth. There are pros and cons to partial and complete dentures. However, if you still have some natural teeth, partial dentures may provide better chewing function. If you have questions, contact a dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.oaktreefamilydental.com or call Oak Tree Dental at (703) 763-5239 for an appointment in our McLean office.

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