If you are replacing several missing teeth, the biggest difference between full and partial dentures is how much of your smile needs to be restored. At Andina Dental Studio in Wilmington, Delaware, we look at the teeth you still have, the health of your gums, your bite, and how you want your replacement teeth to function. Our clinical team includes Dr. Andrés Hurtado, whose background includes dental surgery and implant dentistry, along with Dr. Sheyla Artiga and Dr. Tarlan Arshian. That range of restorative experience helps us discuss dentures in the context of your whole mouth rather than choosing an appliance based on tooth count alone.
When Are Full Dentures Used?
Full dentures replace all of the teeth in an upper or lower arch. They may be considered when no natural teeth remain in that arch or when the teeth that are still present cannot serve as a healthy foundation for another restorative plan.
After the denture is made, we check the fit and bite and make adjustments as needed. A well-fitting restoration can make everyday tasks such as chewing and speaking easier while restoring the appearance of the missing teeth.
When Are Partial Dentures Used?
Partial dentures fill gaps while working around natural teeth that can stay in place. Because those teeth become part of the overall restorative picture, their condition matters.
A general dental exam gives us a closer look at your teeth, gums, bite, and previous dental work. This helps us determine which teeth can remain and what type of replacement may work best around them.
What Else Affects the Choice?
How many teeth you are missing matters, but it does not tell us everything we need to know. The location of the gaps, gum health, bite, comfort, and your preferences all influence the recommendation.
Impressions or digital scans may be used to gather more detail before a denture is made. Our digital dentistry tools can also help us view oral structures more closely and explain what we are seeing during the planning process.
Could Dental Implants Be Part of the Plan?
Some patients may also be candidates for implant-supported dentures. Because we provide dental implants, we can discuss whether added implant support is worth considering based on your oral health and restorative needs.
Compare Your Tooth-Replacement Choices in Wilmington
You do not need to know which type of denture you need before your first visit. Contact us at Andina Dental Studio in Wilmington, Delaware, or call 302-543-5987. We can examine your mouth, talk through what matters most to you, and explain which tooth-replacement choices fit your current dental situation.
