Full Dentures vs. Partial Dentures

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, more than 36 million Americans don’t have teeth and more than 120 million are missing at least one tooth. Even if you practice good oral hygiene, your teeth may still deteriorate with age or because of disease or injury.

Our teeth not only help us chew, but they also aid in speech. However, just because you lost your teeth doesn’t mean you should lose your confidence or appetite. Dentures can act as apt replacements – whether you lost them due to age or an autoimmune condition.

Common Issues Caused By Missing Teeth

If you have lost one or several permanent teeth, you may be susceptible to the following:

• Missing teeth can cause facial muscles to sag, which can make you look older than you are.
• Your speech can get slurred as you have difficulty pronouncing certain words. That’s because speech requires coordination between the muscles and the teeth, lips, tongue, cheeks and the vocal tract. If you lose several teeth,sounds you can normally produce from the front of the mouth, your lower and upper teeth will sound distorted.
• Chewing will become a chore and you won’t be able to eat hard food, which has high nutritional value, such as nuts, apples, vegetables, etc. While you can switch to softer food, your diet may offer little in terms of nutritional value.
• Teeth on both sides of the gap left by the missing teeth may start to lean into the space, thereby becoming difficult to clean and create a bite problem. That’s because besides becoming crooked, they also leave gaps between neighboring teeth, which can also start to lean in.

Full Dentures vs. Partial Dentures

If you are missing several teeth and wish to get dentures, you have two options – full and partial dentures.

Full Dentures

If you have lost all your natural teeth, you should go with a full set of dentures. Also known as complete dentures, these are made of plastic or acrylic, which is flesh colored. Depending on the state of your teeth, the set is designed and molded to sit comfortably on the gums.

Full dentures are removable and can be designed to fit the top or bottom gum line. The set remains in place by suction and an oral adhesive. The lower set is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate the tongue and is held in place with it and cheek muscles.

Partial Dentures

If you have lost only one or two teeth, you can just get partial dentures rather than a full set. This is basically a gum-colored plastic base with one or more false teeth affixed on it. The set is often connected to natural teeth via a metal framework or clips.

Besides replacing missing teeth and making your smile look perfect, partial dentures can also prevent your neighboring teeth from shifting their positions.

Whether you need dentures put in or just want a regular dental checkup, book your appointment with Smile League Dental today at 815-782-6243. We are experienced family dentists who use cutting-edge technology and advanced dental tools to ensure the best dental care possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

What exactly are dentures?

Dentures are custom-made removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore function, appearance, and oral health. They can replace a full arch of teeth (complete dentures) or just a few missing teeth (partial dentures). Modern dentures are typically made from acrylic, metal alloys, or flexible materials depending on the patient’s needs and comfort preferences.

What types of dentures are available?

Most patients choose from the following:

Complete Dentures

Used when all teeth in the upper or lower arch are missing. They rest directly on the gums and are custom‑shaped to fit the mouth.

Partial Dentures

Ideal for patients who still have some natural teeth. They attach to existing teeth using clasps or precision attachments.

Immediate Dentures

Placed the same day teeth are extracted, allowing patients to leave the office with teeth in place. These often require adjustments as the gums heal.

Implant‑Supported Dentures

These attach to dental implants for improved stability, chewing power, and comfort. They can be fixed or removable.

What are dentures made of?

Common materials include:

• Acrylic resin – lightweight, affordable, and easy to adjust
• Cobalt‑chrome alloy – durable metal framework often used in partial dentures
• Flexible nylon (Valplast) – offers a more comfortable, flexible fit for certain partials

The choice depends on comfort, durability, budget, and aesthetic goals.

Can I get dentures the same day my teeth are removed?

Yes. Immediate dentures are designed for this purpose. They allow patients to maintain appearance and function right after extractions, but because the gums shrink during healing, relining or replacement is usually needed after several months.

Will dentures hurt or feel uncomfortable at first?

It’s normal to experience:

• Soreness
• Increased saliva
• Minor irritation
• A learning curve with speaking and chewing

These symptoms typically improve as the mouth adjusts. Persistent pain or poor fit should be evaluated by a dentist, as adjustments or relining may be necessary.

Can I eat normally with dentures?

Most patients adapt well, but it takes practice. Dentists often recommend:

• Starting with soft foods
• Cutting food into smaller pieces
• Chewing evenly on both sides

Some foods—like sticky candies, tough meats, or hard nuts—may remain challenging. Implant‑supported dentures offer the most natural chewing experience.

Why do I sound different when speaking with new dentures?

Speech changes are common because the tongue and lips must adapt to the new shape of the mouth. Reading aloud and practicing difficult words can speed up the adjustment period. Most patients regain normal speech within a few weeks.

How do I care for my dentures?

Proper care includes:

• Brushing dentures daily with a soft brush
• Soaking them overnight in a denture cleanser
• Cleaning gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth
• Avoiding hot water, which can warp acrylic

Regular dental checkups are essential to monitor fit and oral health.

Can I sleep in my dentures?

Most dentists recommend removing dentures at night to:

• Allow gums to rest
• Reduce the risk of fungal infections
• Prevent bone resorption from constant pressure

Nighttime removal also helps prolong the life of the appliance.

What if my dentures feel loose?

Loose dentures can result from:

• Natural bone and gum shrinkage
• Wear and tear
• Changes in bite

Dentists can reline, adjust, or replace dentures to restore comfort and stability. Never attempt to adjust dentures at home.

How long do dentures last?

Most dentures last 5–10 years, depending on oral changes, material quality, and daily care. Regular evaluations help determine when replacement is needed