There are two types of partial dentures: fixed and removable. The health of the teeth surrounding the gap is one of the factors that determine what type of partial denture is prescribed for you.
A fixed partial denture is also called a dental implant bridge. A dental implant bridge permanently attaches artificial teeth directly to the jaw with a dental crown or under the gum tissue with dental implants.
A removable partial denture is also known as a removable dental bridge. A removable dental bridge fills the gap between two healthy teeth and consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base. Removable partial dentures are connected by a metal framework that helps keep them in place.
There are different levels of sedation to accommodate every patient. Minimal sedation involves inhaling nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”). Nitrous oxide helps you relax and wears off quickly. Conscious sedation is a moderate level of sedation that causes drowsiness and is taken in pill form.
Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth -- but not everyone qualifies as a candidate for implant dentistry. Tooth loss from periodontal disease or other dental conditions may cause the jaw bone to weaken, and the resulting bone loss will lessen the possibility of the patient being able to support a dental implant or other dental appliance.
In such a case, a procedure called bone grafting is often used to add bone to the jaw. Bone is taken from another area in the body and transplanted to the jaw bone to increase its mass.