Looking for an Affordable Way to Improve the Look of a Partial Denture?

Are you bothered by the look and feel of a metal clasp around your tooth that keeps your partial denture in place? Is there an affordable way to conceal the clasp and enhance your smile? We’ll give you a realistic view of what can—and what can’t—be done to improve your smile.

What Can Be Done About the Metal Clasp?

A traditional partial denture is secured with a metal clasp around the tooth on either side of it. Some patients complain that when they smile, the clasp shines in the light and makes it evident that they are wearing a partial denture.

For a minimal charge, your dentist can sandblast the clasp and give it a matte finish to prevent it from reflecting in the light. A dental lab can also do it for you.

What Your Dentist Can’t Do

The metal clasp needs to remain flexible around your teeth. Your dentist is unable to bond anything to it that might conceal its color. The clasp can weaken or break in the process of trying to conceal it. And it the loss of flexibility will increase the discomfort around your tooth.

An Affordable Alternative for Your Partial Denture

Photo of a valplast partial denture - an affordable alternative to a metal-clasped partial.
An affordable alternative to a metal clasp on your partial denture

Modern removable partial dentures have plastic clear or gum-colored claps that blend with your gums. Although the clasps are less sturdy than metal ones, they are also less noticeable and won’t be obvious when you smile. It is an affordable alternative for people who are unable to invest in dental implants to replace missing teeth.

Which Appliance Should You Request?

Before you request a specific dental appliance, consult with a cosmetic dentist who will examine your current partial denture and discuss your options.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX cosmetic dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

5 Cheap Ways to Whiten Your Teeth and What to Expect

There are plenty of advantages to whitening your teeth. When it’s done safely, you really can’t go wrong. Just some of the benefits include:

  • Making your smile look younger
  • Improving your social life
  • Creating a good first impression
  • Helping you feel more confident

Cheap Paths to a Brighter Smile

Of course, you can get your teeth whitened by your dentist, but are there less expensive ways that work? Let’s review five common ways people brighten their smile, and what you can expect.

1. Whitening toothpaste

There are many brands of whitening toothpaste. Some of them remove surface stains on your teeth. Many of them are abrasive and can scratch your tooth enamel. You’ll receive minimal results—if any—and if stains are trapped deep in your teeth, you probably won’t notice a difference with whitening toothpaste.

2. Whitening strips

Some strips will provide decent results depending on the strength of the peroxide in them. The higher the percentage of peroxide, the whiter your teeth will get. Remember not to overdo it. And keep the bleaching gel away from your gums.

3. Over-the-counter bleaching kit

The success of over-the-counter kits depends on the contents of the bleaching gel. Carbamide peroxide is the most effective bleaching agent. Bleaching trays need to fit well to keep the gel in contact with your teeth so it can penetrate them and break down stains. The gel in most kits is less than half the strength of what dentists offer, so it will take more whitening sessions to brighten your teeth.

4. Baking soda

Baking soda can help with minor stains, but it is also abrasive to your tooth enamel. You shouldn’t use it for an extended period. And if you have composite bonding on your teeth or other types of dental restorations, you shouldn’t use it at all.

5. Free teeth whitening

Teeth whitening makes your smile look younger

Yep – free teeth whitening. Did you know that some dentists offer it if you keep up with your regularly scheduled appointments for cleaning and exams? You will receive custom bleaching trays and professional-strength gel. The results? A dynamic smile.

This post is sponsored by Miranda Lacy DDS, a female dentist in Plano, TX who offers free teeth whitening.