I Regret Bypassing My Dentist and Going to the Lab for a New Partial Denture
I made the mistake of going directly to the lab for a new partial denture. I bypassed my dentist to save money. I have coworkers who use the same lab and have no problems. My partial denture is uncomfortable and too short. It rocks when I chew. The lab couldn’t fix it and told me I need my dentist’s impressions to fix it. Why would they agree to do it? I’m embarrassed. What should I do? Thanks. Karl from SC
Karl,
We understand that dealing with a partial denture that moves when you chew must be frustrating and uncomfortable. A secure and comfortable fit is essential for any dental appliance to function correctly and feel natural.
Creating a partial denture that fits precisely involves crucial steps a qualified dentist takes. Your dentist takes accurate impressions of your mouth and makes a detailed model of your teeth and gums. They use this information to design the denture and write a specific prescription, which they then send to a dental laboratory. A dentist’s guidelines ensure the lab technicians have the exact specifications to craft an appliance tailored to your unique oral anatomy.
Legally, dental laboratories in the United States cannot create partial dentures, complete dentures, or any other dental restoration directly for a patient without receiving a prescription from a licensed dentist. While you may have approached the lab directly to save money, the lab operates under these legal requirements and should have declined to make the denture without a dentist’s order. Because the lab professionals know these rules, the primary fault lies with them for proceeding without the necessary prescription and dental guidance. Lab technicians are skilled in fabricating appliances but do not take dental impressions or design restorations directly in a patient’s mouth; this expertise belongs to the dentist. Skipping the dentist’s essential diagnostic and design work leads to an inaccurate fit and the type of movement you are experiencing.
If you want a refund from the laboratory, you can inform them that making the appliance without a dentist’s prescription is illegal. Mention that you are prepared to report this violation to the state dental board. They will likely agree to refund your payment to avoid formal action.
After addressing the issue with the lab, we strongly encourage you to consult with your dentist or find a new dentist you feel comfortable with. They can take precise impressions and oversee the creation of a new partial denture that will fit correctly, feel comfortable, and remain stable when you chew.
What Is an Alternative to a Partial Denture?
As you think about replacing the ill-fitting partial denture, you may also want to learn about dental implants as an alternative solution for missing teeth. A dental implant is a small, artificial root (usually made of titanium) that a dentist surgically places into your jawbone, which integrates to support a replacement tooth.
Dental implants offer several advantages over partial dentures, which are worth considering, especially when it’s time for a replacement. Understanding these benefits can help you make an informed decision about your long-term dental health:
- Durability: Dental implants can last 20 years or significantly longer with proper care, while partial dentures generally require replacement every five to seven years.
- Self-Sufficiency: An implant supports a dental crown (the visible part of the replacement tooth) without relying on adjacent natural teeth for support, unlike partial dentures, which often use clasps on neighboring teeth.
- Stability: Because the implant fuses directly with your jawbone, it provides a very stable foundation that does not move or shift when you chew or speak.
- Bone Preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping maintain bone density over time.
If you want a more permanent and stable tooth replacement option, consider discussing dental implants with a dentist with implantology experience. They can evaluate your needs and oral health to determine if you could benefit from this advanced treatment.
Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post.
My New Partial Denture Burns My Tongue
My tongue has been burning since I got a new partial denture last November. It burns beneath my tongue and on my lips. I also have bad taste. My dentist suspects a metal allergy and recommends a $4,500 bridge instead. He also gave me liquid lidocaine to numb my mouth. I know that’s not a solution, but I wanted to describe what’s happening completely. Is a dental bridge my only alternative? – Thank you. Sona from IL
Sona
You’re right. Liquid lidocaine is not a solution to the burning sensation on your tongue and lips. We are concerned with your dentist’s diagnosis and treatment options.
A skilled dentist knows the alternatives to a metal-based partial dentist. One option is the Valplast partial.
What Is a Valplast Partial Denture?
A Valplast partial denture is a denture with a thermoplastic resin framework. Thermoplastic resin is stronger and more flexible than acrylic. It may be a tooth replacement solution if you are allergic to metal-based dental restorations. Although we are unaware of allergic reactions to Valplast, it is not impossible to be allergic to it.
Ask your dentist whether you can benefit from a Valplast partial denture or another thermoplastic resin denture.
What If You’re Allergic to Your Partial Denture?
If you suspect a reaction to your partial denture, we recommend testing from an allergist. Ask your dentist about the metal content of your existing denture and the contents of alternative partial dentures, including acrylic. Nickel in dental materials is the most common allergen. Test results from the allergist can help you find a biocompatible solution.
If your dentist cannot recommend a non-metal partial denture, schedule a second opinion with an advanced cosmetic dentist to discuss your options. A dental bridge should not be necessary. Also, a bridge requires work on teeth adjacent to the missing one. Although it costs more, a dental implant is a healthier, long-lasting solution for a missing tooth. Nevertheless, a cosmetic dentist can explain your tooth replacement options after allergy testing.
Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post.