​​The main difference between a partial and complete denture is the number of teeth being replaced. A partial denture is used to replace one or more missing teeth, but not all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. It consists of a metal or plastic framework that holds one or more artificial teeth in place, and is usually anchored to the remaining natural teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments. A complete denture, on the other hand, is used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. It consists of a full set of artificial teeth attached to a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over the gums. Complete dentures can be either conventional, meaning they are made after the remaining teeth have been removed and the gums have healed, or immediate, meaning they are made and placed in the mouth immediately after the teeth are removed.