“How many years do partials last?”

Insurance will pay to replace them every 5-10 years, depending on your plan. As to when they have to be replaced: when the framework no longer fits properly. If the bony ridge supporting the partial reabsorbs, you may just need a reline. If a tooth is extracted, depending on which it is, you might need it added onto the partial, or the partial may need to be redone.

That's a great question! For some patients, partials can last decades. I had an elderly gentleman once whose upper partial had lasted 50 years! The real determining factor is how stable the teeth are that hold the partial in place. If a partial is anchored on four teeth that end up getting cavities, crowns, or are extracted--that makes it very difficult to keep the same partial. So if the surrounding teeth stay healthy, and the patient doesn't damage their partial by dropping it--then a partial could easily last decades.

Partial dentures last until you leave the Dentist's office. The real question is what happens when your mouth adapts to the partial denture, and what changes in the contour of your mouth occur? How do these natural changes affect the form, fit, function and comfort of your partial denture with respect to your mouth? You should be seeing your dentist every 6 months for a checkup and for the cleaning of your teeth. You would not think of driving your car without ever giving it an oil change and a safety check. The same applies to your teeth and your partial denture. During the "safety check" the dentist will examine the partial denture for wear, cracks, chips, bent prongs, and the fit of the appliance with respect to your soft tissue (your gums). Many minor problems can be repaired on the denture, and a reline can restore the exact fit of the denture with your gums so that there will not be any irritating spots, if the dentist finds any such irritation. Just as you must change the tires when they wear out, sometimes a hard wear on your partial denture may require its complete replacement. Your dentist will assess the condition of your partial and will recommend whatever needs to be done to optimize your dental health. If one or more natural teeth are supporting the denture, the dentist will also determine if any changes or restorations must occur due to the condition of the teeth. DENTIST