Tag Archives: partial denture

Dentures

What If I am Allergic to My Partial Denture?

What if I am allergic to my partial denture? My gums get sore, and my tongue burns every time I wear it. At the end of the day, I can feel tiny bumps on my gums. The irritation goes away if I stay home for a few days and don’t need to wear the partial denture. Can I exchange it for something else, or will I need to pay for a new partial? My dentist mentioned a bridge, but that seems extreme. I would rather research another type of partial. Thanks. Juliette from Wilmington, DE

Juliette – Dentists can design partial plates from several materials. While a fixed bridge can work, it may not be practical for every patient. A dentist who listens carefully will suggest other solutions when cost or allergy is a concern.

Why Might I Feel Burning or Irritation from My Partial Denture?

Burning in the lips or tongue can be a sign of a contact allergy. This happens when your body reacts to one of the materials used in your denture.

What Should I Do If I Think I’m Allergic to My Partial?

If you notice irritation, leave the partial out until you know which material is causing the problem. A mouth rinse may provide temporary relief, but it will not address the underlying issue.

How Can I Determine Which Material Is Safe for Me?

Your dentist can work with an allergist for testing. These tests identify which materials your body tolerates and which cause reactions. Once you know the results, your dentist can make a new partial with a non-irritating material.

Which Dental Materials Are Most Likely to Cause Allergies?

Dentures and partials can be made from several materials:

  • Acrylic – common and inexpensive, but more likely to cause reactions.
  • Valplast – a flexible nylon-based resin, rarely linked to allergies.
  • Metals – nickel and some other alloys may trigger allergies in sensitive patients.

Will My Insurance Cover Allergy Testing?

In many cases, medical insurance covers allergy testing. This can make it easier to find a safe and affordable long-term solution.

Plano, Texas, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.

Sedation Dentistry

Should I have to pay for sedation dentistry again?

In May I got a new partial denture and I think I’m going to have to go back under sedation to have it fixed. A metal clasp on the left side of my mouth is putting a lot of pressure on the next tooth. I thought that maybe it would loosen with time but it’s quite uncomfortable. Can this clasp be adjusted? If it can be, should I have to pay out of pocket for sedation dentistry? I’ve used all of my insurance allowance for sedation. I just can’t get through a dental appointment without it. If this is an issue my dentist is responsible for, shouldn’t she cover fixing the partial and waive the fee for sedation? – Patrick T.

Patrick,

Although partial dentures are made at a dental lab, most general dentists are able to loosen a clasp on the denture. Partial dentures are usually uncomfortable when you first receive them. The tight clasp might not necessarily be your dentist’s fault. Ask her to explain the reason for the discomfort.

Call your dentist to let her know your concern. If you’ve had the partial denture for longer than a month, she will want to promptly check it. A clasp that is too tight on a tooth for a long period can potentially damage the tooth.

Ask Your Dentist about Sedation

You should speak with your dentist about your need for sedation and ask if she is willing to waive the fee. You can also contact your insurance company, explain the circumstances, and ask for special consideration for any insurance claim that will be submitted for sedation fees.

Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

Dental implants are an option for permanently replacing teeth without the adjustment period or the discomfort of partial dentures.  But dental implants are a more expensive option, and your dentist must determine if you are a candidate for them. They have several advantages over a partial denture:

  • Surgically implanted in your jawbone
  • Stimulate bone growth and prevent shrinkage
  • Look and feel like your natural teeth
  • Don’t need to be secured to an adjacent tooth
  • More cost-effective in the long-term because they are permanent

If your budget permits, you can consider dental implants as an alternative in the future when you need a new partial denture.

We hope you have a successful outcome with adjusting your partial denture and getting assistance with the cost of sedation dentistry.

This blog is sponsored by Plano sedation dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.