Numerous advances in modern dentistry have made it easier to protect and preserve our teeth. Despite this, it is still common to lose a tooth or teeth as we age. We are pleased to have innovative techniques at our fingertips to help patients address the varying degrees of tooth loss that may occur. For example, a dental implant and ceramic crown can fill in space between two teeth when one tooth is lost. All-on-Four implant treatment can restore function and appearance to a full arch. Somewhere in between the two, we’ve got invisible partial dentures.
What is an invisible partial denture?
Removable partial dentures have existed for decades. Originally, this artificial structure was made of chrome-cobalt alloy, a mixture of metals, and acrylic polymers. Metal created a stable base for the removable denture, and acrylic provided a good stand-in for natural teeth. The traditional removal partial denture would be held in place with metal clasps.
Invisible partial dentures were developed over time as the strong desire for natural appearance became more evident. As implied, an invisible partial denture is intended to disappear in the mouth; to look no different than natural teeth would. In our Miami and Pembroke Pines offices, we achieve this using the Valplast® model. Like traditional removable partial dentures with their metal base, Valplast® invisible partial dentures meet fundamental requirements including stability, functional support, and retention. Furthermore, though, these dentures satisfy that need for a natural appearance.
What is a Valplast® invisible partial denture?
Valplast® removal dentures are made to be lightweight and flexible. This type of invisible partial denture is thin and has no metal. The clasps that secure the partial denture to adjacent teeth are made “invisible” through a color-matching process between the flexible material and natural gum tissue. We take meticulous care through each step of the planning phase so the dentures that are returned from the lab meet our expectations, as well as yours.
What are the advantages of invisible partial dentures?
Dental implants, due to their replacement of roots, are considered ideal for long-term tooth replacement. We realize that there are situations for which dental implants are not ideal. Patients who are not good candidates for dental implants, or who prefer a lower-cost treatment, appreciate the discreet nature of the invisible partial denture. Additional advantages of the Valplast® product include:
- Comfort. Lightweight, flexible material achieves a precise fit.
- Functional. Thin, discreet clasps have little effect on speech and are less likely than bulkier clasps to collect food.
- Biocompatible. Metal-free invisible partial dentures are made without potential allergens.
- Stress-distribution. When we chew, the force needs to spread out across the arch of teeth. The Valplast® invisible partial denture supports this diffusion of force to the fixture – and adjacent teeth – do not wear down prematurely.
- Conservative. A removable partial denture does not require tooth reduction for crown fittings.
- Durable. Because Valplast® dentures are flexible, they are virtually breakproof.
What is the treatment process to get an invisible partial denture?
A few appointments are needed to fully restore function and appearance after tooth loss. The process includes:
- Impressions are taken to make molds of the teeth adjacent to the empty space.
- A bite impression is formed in a wax platform to measure where the partial denture needs to sit in the mouth. The bite impression ensures comfort when chewing with the denture.
- Try-in. The initial try-in is done with the wax base. The purpose of this step is to confirm the suitability of arrangement, size, and color for the final partial denture. With confirmation, we then send the final prescription to the lab.
- Denture delivery. When the Valplast denture is delivered to the office, we set it in place and demonstrate how you can insert, remove, and care for your new denture.
- Follow-up. It is important to assess the fit and feel of your new denture after you have had a chance to use it. We may schedule a follow-up review after several weeks. If needed, adjustments can be made at this time.
Does an invisible partial denture require special care?
Good oral hygiene is essential after the insertion of a removable partial denture. In addition to brushing and flossing natural teeth, the denture will need a bit of care. This may include:
- Regular denture cleaning using approved denture cleaner. Valplast makes a cleanser specifically for their dentures.
- Cleaning the denture is as easy as soaking in Val-Clean® Concentrated Denture Cleaner for 10 to 15 minutes each day.
- Use running water or a sonic denture cleaner to remove debris. It is not recommended that a toothbrush be used on Valplast material, as even soft bristles may roughen the surface.
- When possible, rinse the partial denture after meals.
- Keep the denture hydrated by keeping it in water or denture cleaner when it is not in place.
Learn more about invisible partial dentures and how this treatment can preserve your smile. Call our Miami or Pembroke Pines office for a convenient appointment.
