Prosthetic teeth treatment is a dental procedure designed to replace missing teeth and regenerate lost oral tissues. The primary goal of the dental prosthesis is to restore the aesthetic appearance and essential functions, including chewing and speaking, for the patient.
What is a dental prosthesis?
People might turn to the dental prosthesis technique to replace lost teeth resulting from gum disease or other difficulties related to various dental issues. Considering the patient’s jaw and tooth anatomy, prosthetic teeth are customized for them individually.
Patients may resume eating and chewing food correctly and properly because prosthetic teeth help patients restore their teeth, which are the first organs in the digestive system.
People who wear prosthetic teeth may need to adjust to them over many months. People may feel some discomfort when they adjust to their new teeth during this period. During a chat, they could feel uncomfortable, especially when chewing. Initially, prosthetic teeth may cause a sensation of looseness or fullness in the mouth.
Patients experience no discomfort or other issues when the familiarization phase is over. The dental prosthesis begins to feel just like real teeth.
What are the treatment options in Prosthodontics?
The field of dentistry known as prosthodontics focuses on the artificial replacement of missing or lost teeth with new dental structures.
Prosthetic dental treatment encompasses a variety of dental prostheses, including:
Crowns
Teeth restorations serve to strengthen and improve the look of a tooth by covering it. They can be made from porcelain, glass, or precious metal compounds like gold. The natural tint of the teeth is carefully matched to each one of them.
Dental Bridges
Designed to replace missing teeth, bridges consist of false teeth, called pontics, supported by crowns on adjacent teeth. The supporting teeth must be robust and healthy to uphold the bridge, although precisely positioned implants can also serve as support.
Dentures
Various types of dentures aim to replace missing teeth comfortably and aesthetically pleasingly. Partial dentures replace a few missing teeth, while full dentures are utilized for patients who have lost all their teeth in either one or both jaws. Well-designed dentures, tailored with the patient’s input, often have a life-changing impact. They can be constructed from materials such as porcelain and plastic and may be removable or fixed using dental implants.
Dental Implants
When one or more teeth are lost, they act as synthetic tooth roots for a permanent replacement. Crowns, bridges, or fastened dentures can be securely supported by implants, which are tiny titanium screws inserted into the jawbone.
Types of Dental Prosthesis
Dental prostheses are classified into two categories: moveable prostheses and fixed prostheses.
Fixed dental prostheses are permanent and cannot be removed at the patient’s request once they are placed in the mouth. They are typically preferred when only a few teeth are missing. These prostheses can be made from various materials, and their durability can vary based on the chosen material. Dentists, in consultation with patients, decide on the best material for fixed dental prostheses, with two common options being zirconium and laminate.
Zirconium, known for its white shades, is the most popular material for fixed dental prostheses. It offers a combination of functionality, aesthetics, and durability.
Laminate prostheses, on the other hand, involve attaching thin porcelain sheets to the front surface of the teeth. This type of prosthesis is mainly used for enhancing the appearance of front teeth and addressing issues such as dental fractures and discoloration.
Movable dental prostheses, as the name suggests, can be removed and replaced by the patient. These are typically preferred when there are insufficient natural teeth in the mouth. Types of movable prostheses include total prostheses (for patients with no natural teeth), partial dentures (for multiple missing teeth), immediate prostheses (for aesthetic concerns after tooth extraction), and implant-supported prostheses.
What is an implant-supported prosthesis?
An implant-supported prosthesis refers to a dental prosthesis that is upheld by dental implants, with the specific points where the implants offer support being referred to as abutment sites. This serves as a restorative dental solution for individuals with missing teeth.
To ascertain the most suitable prosthesis for an individual, it is crucial to undergo a comprehensive dental examination and diagnosis. Familiarizing oneself with the various types of dental prostheses is highly recommended. This knowledge is essential before devising an oral care plan tailored to address specific dental conditions. This approach ensures informed decision-making. It also facilitates the selection of the most appropriate dental treatment for optimal oral health and function.
What is maxillofacial prosthesis?
The management of significant defects arising from congenital anomalies, trauma, or surgical removal of tumors poses substantial challenges. In such cases, maxillofacial prostheses play a crucial role. They enable these patients to undergo treatment that addresses both aesthetic concerns and functional limitations.
Night guards, also known as night plaques, are transparent dental devices designed to alleviate potential issues associated with teeth grinding and jaw clenching during sleep. By providing a protective barrier, they help prevent potential damage to the natural teeth. This contributes to the maintenance of oral health and the reduction of related discomfort, including issues with the TMJ.
What is the difference between dental implant and dental prosthesis?
When one or all teeth are missing, the implant is placed straight into the bone to restore chewing ability and appearance. Because the prosthesis is anchored by live roots, it needs extra attention.
How should prosthesis care be?
It’s crucial to treat your dental prostheses with the same care as your natural teeth. Plaque can accumulate on both prostheses and natural teeth, potentially leading to gum diseases.
For those with total prostheses, it is advised to thoroughly brush them by taking them out. Before bedtime, it is essential to use a prosthesis cleaner and store the prostheses in water overnight.
Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of keeping the inside of your mouth clean by gently brushing your gums and tongue.
How are dental prostheses made?
To create a dental prosthesis, your dentist conducts a comprehensive evaluation of your oral cavity and teeth, often utilizing dental X-rays of the affected teeth. This enables the dentist to design a prosthesis that provides support for any remaining teeth and facilitates normal eating and speech. Additionally, it allows for the enhancement of aesthetic appeal. Subsequently, an impression of the existing teeth is taken by having you bite into a mold, which is then sent to a dental laboratory. Dental prostheses can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, composite resin, acrylic, and zirconia, as per Decisions in Dentistry.
Upon completion, the placement process varies depending on the type of dental prosthesis. For implant fittings, the dentist surgically inserts a titanium fixture (post) into the bone. Before the prosthesis is installed, there is a waiting period of many months to guarantee stable installation. To make the tooth surface ready for a prosthesis, the dentist may need to remove or etch a portion of it in the case of veneers, crowns, or bridges. Dentures are carefully checked to ensure a snug and comfortable fit within your mouth.
Dental prostheses contribute significantly to boosting patient self-confidence by replacing missing teeth. They also enhance the appearance of discolored or damaged teeth, further improving the patient’s self-esteem. If you believe that a prosthesis could be the solution to your dental concerns, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with us at +90 (536) 934 6524 to explore the options available for enhancing your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat with prosthetic teeth?
Can you eat with prosthetic teeth?
After getting used to the dentures, a wide range of foods can be comfortably consumed. The individual should find it easy to manage fruits, vegetables, grains, and pasta with the appliance. Ensuring to chew on both sides of the mouth and continuing to chew until the food is in small, manageable bites is crucial.
Are prosthetic teeth worth it?
Are prosthetic teeth worth it?
Absolutely! Although the procedure may appear time-consuming, the outcome for dental implants justifies the time and cost investment.
Are prosthetic teeth good?
Are prosthetic teeth good?
Dental prostheses have a vital role in both oral function and aesthetics. They aid in the replacement of missing teeth, the restoration of proper chewing and speech abilities, and the enhancement of one's smile's appearance.
How long do prosthetic teeth last?
How long do prosthetic teeth last?
Dental implants exhibit an impressive success rate of 90% to 95% over 10 or more years. Furthermore, research indicates that with appropriate placement and maintenance, dental implants can potentially endure a lifetime. Only the crown may require replacement after approximately 15 to 20 years due to normal wear and tear.
What is tooth supported prosthesis?
What is tooth supported prosthesis?
Tooth-supported dentures are linked to the surrounding natural teeth. The replacement tooth is linked to the natural teeth by grinding them down, inserting dental crowns, and connecting them with a bridge. This technique is appropriate when the neighboring teeth are robust and healthy enough to withstand the load of the bridge.
Why should I see a prosthodontist?
Why should I see a prosthodontist?
In essence, prosthodontists are the acknowledged specialists when it comes to replacing anything in your oral cavity. This includes the replacement of a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth and gums within the mouth.
