At Peninsula Family Dentistry in Gig Harbor, we understand the importance of function and aesthetics when it comes to your smile. Missing teeth can significantly impact your ability to eat, speak, and confidently smile. That’s why Thomas Duffy, DDS, and our compassionate team are committed to providing thoughtful and personalized care to help you restore your smile with partial dentures in Gig Harbor. We consider it a privilege to guide you through this important decision, ensuring that your oral health and well-being are our top priorities.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures can replace one or more missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth, filling the gaps left by missing teeth and helping to restore the natural appearance and function of your smile.
Unlike complete dentures, which replace all the teeth on your upper or lower dental arch, or both, partial dentures are anchored by your remaining natural teeth. However, they typically consist of a gum-colored base made of acrylic over a strength-providing cast-metal framework with carefully-crafted artificial teeth attached to it. Plus, metal clasps securely hold the partial denture in place, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease.
Restoring Function with Partial Dentures
One of the primary benefits of partial dentures is their ability to restore the function of your mouth efficiently, replacing any missing teeth on a given jaw with one prosthesis. Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food correctly, leading to nutritional deficiencies and even digestive issues. Additionally, partial dentures help to distribute the force of your bite more evenly, allowing you to chew thoroughly and enjoy a wider variety of foods that help you maintain a balanced diet.
Enhancing Aesthetics with Partial Dentures
Beyond functionality, partial dentures can also significantly enhance the appearance of your smile. A well-fitting partial denture blends more seamlessly with your natural teeth than something temporary, providing a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing look. However, the artificial teeth used in partial dentures match your existing teeths’ color, shape, and size, ensuring that your smile looks as natural as possible.
For many people, the confidence that comes with a complete smile is one of the most rewarding aspects of wearing partial dentures. Plus, whether speaking, laughing, or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, partial dentures can help you feel more self-assured and comfortable in social situations.
A Compassionate and Trusted Approach to Dental Care
We believe every patient deserves to feel heard, understood, and cared for.
Dr. Duffy has significant experience helping his patients choose what is best for them–from full dentures, dental bridges, dental implants and partial dentures. Dr. Duffy and our team will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions that best meet your needs. While fixed solutions like bridges and implants generally will look and feel closer to natural than a removable partial, these are not without their costs. Plus, we understand that choosing to restore your smile with partial dentures (or another solution) is a significant decision, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
At Peninsula Family Dentistry, our patients have peace of mind knowing they will receive gentle and compassionate dental care. Whether you’re considering partial dentures for the first time or looking to replace an existing set, we can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your smile and overall well-being in our relaxing and friendly setting.
The Process of Getting Partial Dentures in Gig Harbor
If you’re considering partial dentures, you may be wondering what to expect during the process. Here’s a brief overview of what you can anticipate:
- Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a consultation with Dr. Duffy, who will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and discuss your dental history, goals, and concerns. Together, you’ll determine if partial dentures in Gig Harbor are the right solution for you.
- Impressions and Measurements: If you decide to proceed with partial dentures, Dr. Duffy will take detailed impressions and measurements of your mouth over several visits. Furthermore, we use these impressions to create a custom-fitted denture that aligns perfectly with your remaining teeth.
- Denture Fitting: Once your partial denture is ready, you’ll return to our office for a fitting. Dr. Duffy will ensure that the denture fits comfortably and securely, making any necessary adjustments to achieve the best possible fit, and give you time to get a feel for placing and removing your new partial.
- Follow-Up Care: After you’ve had some time to adjust to your new partial dentures, we’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any questions. Plus, Dr. Duffy and our team are always available to provide ongoing support and care. The remaining natural anchor teeth are still susceptible to cavities and gum disease, so it’s important to maintain your checkup visits.
Why Patients Choose Peninsula Family Dentistry
Our patients from Gig Harbor, the Key Peninsula, Port Orchard, south Kitsap County, and beyond, choose Peninsula Family Dentistry for our high-quality dental services and our commitment to their oral health care. However, we take pride in building lasting relationships with each person based on trust, respect, and a shared goal of achieving optimal oral health.
Partial Dentures in Gig Harbor
Partial dentures offer a valuable solution for restoring your smile’s function and aesthetics. At Peninsula Family Dentistry, Dr. Duffy and our dedicated team are here to help you navigate this important decision. Plus, we’re honored to serve the Gig Harbor community and surrounding areas, and we look forward to helping you achieve a smile that you can be proud of. Request an appointment today!
