Partial Denture After-Care

Inserting and Removing the Partial

Place and remove the partial in the manner demonstrated at your appointment.
Do not bite down to force it into place. It should follow a specific path and seat with gentle finger pressure.
Do not bend the clasps yourself. Even a small change can affect the fit or damage a supporting tooth.
Wear the partial according to the schedule given by your dentist. It is usually removed while sleeping unless you have been told otherwise.

Begin with soft foods cut into small pieces.
Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth to keep the partial balanced.
Avoid very sticky foods and hard foods that could dislodge the partial or bend a clasp.
Reading aloud can help your tongue and lips adjust to speaking with the partial in place.

Remove and rinse the partial after meals when practical.
Brush it daily with a denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Regular toothpaste can scratch the surface.
Clean it over a folded towel or a sink partly filled with water so it is less likely to break if dropped.
Do not use hot water because heat can change the shape of the appliance.
Use only cleaners that are appropriate for the material in your partial. Products containing bleach can damage some metal components.
Store the partial as directed when it is out of your mouth, and do not allow it to dry out.

Brush your natural teeth twice a day and clean between them daily.
Pay particular attention to the teeth that support the partial because plaque can collect around clasps and rests.
Remove the partial before brushing your natural teeth so all surfaces can be reached.

Mild pressure can occur while your mouth adapts, but a painful spot should not be ignored.
Do not file, bend or repair the partial yourself. Contact us for an adjustment.
A partial can become looser as the gums and bone change over time. It may eventually need adjustment, relining or replacement.

Please contact our office if:

A sore spot is significant or does not improve.
The partial becomes loose, rocks or repeatedly comes out during eating or speaking.
A clasp bends or breaks, the acrylic cracks or a replacement tooth comes loose.
A supporting tooth becomes painful or sensitive.

Beaird Family Dental
Poplar Bluff: (573) 778-0200 · Dexter: (573) 624-8005

This guide was written and reviewed by Dr. Justin Shaw, DMD.

Last reviewed, August 1st, 2026.