A partial denture is a great way to replace a few missing teeth in one area of your mouth! A fixed partial denture is sometimes called a bridge and is secured in place using crowns on either side of the fake teeth. A removable partial uses clasps on each side of the fake teeth so that the patient can remove it easily for oral hygiene.
Losing the ability to eat as you did before is a concern for a lot of patients when they learn they need a partial denture. A partial denture is molded to fit your mouth to provide you with optimal function and aesthetics to replace missing teeth. There is definitely a period of adjustment during which you will need to be patient while you get used to your new partial denture, but eating and speaking should be as easy and seamless as it was before!
Can I eat anything I want with my partial?
The only time that you might consider a change to your diet is for the first couple of weeks while you are adjusting to your new partial. During this time, it can be beneficial to stick to soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing. As you become more comfortable with the feeling of your partial denture, you should be able to continue eating as normal. Here are a few tips to help you transition to life with a partial denture:
* Chew slowly, taking small bites to keep your partial in position.
* Focus on keeping your denture in place while you chew.
* Avoid hard foods like candies and apples for a couple of weeks while you adjust.
It is important to care for your new partial so that it lasts as long as possible! If your partial is removable, take it out each night for oral hygiene and to give your gum tissue a rest while you sleep. Rinse your partial under running water before brushing it with a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste or denture paste then place it in water for the night. Your dentist will give you instructions on how best to care for your partial and the underlying gum tissue.
Your new partial denture is meant to improve your quality of life and provide you with a beautiful, a complete smile! If you have any discomfort or any trouble eating or speaking, talk to your dentist about that as soon as possible to see if a simple adjustment will make your partial perfect. You may experience some discomfort as you get used to your partial denture but this is normal and should only last a week or two!