After spending $1925 for a titanium upper partial denture, I still wish I had dental implants. It’s the clasps around my teeth that bother me. I feel like they disrupt my smile. Maybe I’m too self-conscious. Is there a way to replace the metal clasps with gum-colored ones? Perhaps my dentist told me about the clasps, or I didn’t consider how I would feel about them. The two replacement teeth in the partial denture look natural, but what good is that when you can see metal strung around my teeth to keep the partial in place? Thanks. Geno from NJ
Gene,
We understand your concerns about the clasps on your partial denture.
Can You Switch the Clasps on Your Partial Denture?
The metal claps on your denture are a part of the framework, so you cannot switch them out. Too many alterations to the claps will cause them to break. Adding anything over a partial denture’s clasps to hide the metal will make getting them on your teeth impossible. If you could get the clasps on, they would be uncomfortable. Sometimes, a dentist may be able to reduce the shine on the clasps. You can ask your dentist if it is an option for you.
Alternatives to a Partial Denture with Metal Clasps
Clasps made of biocompatible nylon and thermoplastic resin are an alternative to metal. Although not as sturdy as a metal denture, a Valplast partial denture is flexible and less noticeable because the base and clasps are gum-colored.
Dental Implant vs. Partial Denture
A dental implant mimics a natural tooth for optimal function and long-lasting results.
Although a dental implant costs more than a partial denture, consider the differences in longevity, support, and reliability.
- Longevity – A quality partial denture can last five to ten years. A dental implant can last ten years or longer—even a lifetime.
- Support – Your jawbone supports a dental implant. It does not rely on or clip onto adjacent teeth, so it will not weaken them over time.
- Reliability – Dental implants function like natural teeth. Regular flossing and brushing keep them clean.
- Cost – You will need one dental implant for each missing tooth or an implant bridge for multiple missing teeth in a row. Depending on your needs, a complete dental implant can cost $3,000 to $5,000.
Talk to Your Dentist
Talk to your dentist about your concerns with your partial denture. When it’s time to replace the denture—or before, if you prefer—find a skilled implant dentist to discuss replacing your missing teeth with dental implants.
Lowell, Massachusetts, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek sponsors this post. His office is near Dracut, Methuen, Andover, and Lawrence.