Total edentation is the loss of all teeth. Numerous patients face this problem, which has a significant impact on the quality of life. In addition to difficulty of eating, speaking or smiling naturally, total edentation can also lead to changes in facial structure. Fortunately, there are solutions such as fixed or removable dentures that restore the functionality and aesthetics of the teeth and can allow patients to enjoy a normal and active life again.

What is a dental prosthesis?

Dental prosthesis is a medical solution that replaces lost teeth and restores the functionality and aesthetics of the teeth. Prosthesis are made of materials that naturally mimic the appearance of teeth and are used to replace missing teeth on the lower, upper, or both arches. It is customized according to the shape and size of each patient's oral cavity.

When is dental prosthesis recommended?

Dental prosthesis is recommended if the patient suffers from total or partial edentation, due to various causes, such as accidents, periodontal diseases or other dental problems.

If there are only a few missing teeth, you can opt for a partial dental prosthesis. Partial dentures replace missing teeth and help prevent the remaining natural teeth from migrating. Usually, mobile dentures are used, with staples or clips;

In the case of total edentation, total denture is recommended, which completely restores the dental arch and contributes to the improvement of mastication and speech.

Who needs a dental prosthesis?

Dental prosthesis is recommended to patients in several situations:

  • If only a few teeth are missing from a dental arch;
  • If patients have lost all teeth in one or both dental arches;
  • If patients cannot opt for dental implants. Although dental implants are a more stable option in the long term, not everyone can opt for them for various reasons (financial, material allergies, non-existent amount of bone, medical conditions, etc.);
  • If patients want a temporary solution until dental implants are placed in the future;

The dentist will determine if dentures are an option following the dental consultation.

Types of dental prostheses

Dental prostheses are of several types, divided according to the size and method of fixation.

Partial denture

They are recommended when the patient still has healthy natural teeth that can be preserved. The prosthesis is made around these teeth and fixed by special systems. They have a color similar to natural teeth and offer the most natural aesthetic appearance.

Full denture

Full dentures are the ideal solution for patients who have lost all their natural teeth, regardless of the cause (accidents, periodontal disease, infections or other medical conditions). The total denture helps to completely restore the dentition and has the role of restoring essential functions such as mastication, speech and facial aesthetics.

Removable denture

Mobile prostheses are recommended for patients who cannot opt ​​for dental implants, for various reasons. They are very useful in cases where there is not enough bone for implants. The removable prosthesis can be applied even immediately after tooth extraction and can be easily removed by the patient for hygiene. However, it requires periodic visits to the dentist to correct any changes that may occur over time.

Fixed denture on implants

In this case, the dental prosthesis is mounted on the implants inserted in the maxillary or mandibular bone. Fixed dentures on implants are a more stable and durable solution than removable dentures. All on 4/ All on 6 systems are advanced implantology techniques that use a smaller number of implants (four or six) to support the dental arches. The method is ideal for patients who have lost all their teeth but do not have enough bone to support traditional implants. It is important to note that dental implants require healing time (usually several months) to integrate well into the bone.

Fixed prosthesis on implants cannot be removed by the patient, being permanent.

Skeleton denture

Skeletal denture is a removable, partial denture that attaches to natural teeth, not implants. They are anchored to the remaining natural teeth with the help of special metal systems such as staples, slides or hooks. It is recommended for patients who still have natural teeth on the dental arches, but cannot benefit from fixed prostheses or dental implants due to health conditions or other factors. Skeleton prostheses can be removed by the patient, but they are much more stable than classic mobile prostheses.

Roofless dental prosthesis

Palateless dentures are dentures that do not have a plate covering the upper palate. They are recommended for patients who have a sensitive pharyngeal reflex or who experience difficulties with traditional prostheses that cover the palate. Roofless dentures are arch-shaped and are used especially when all the upper teeth are missing. The base of the prosthesis is made of metal rings that are fixed on the dental implants.

The prostheses can be removed by the patient and are stably placed on the previous dental implants.

How much does a denture cost?

The cost of a dental prosthesis varies depending on the type of prosthesis chosen, the materials used, the complexity of the work and whether there are other additional procedures.

Consult a specialist dentist to receive a detailed treatment plan. The doctor will decide which is the most suitable type of prosthesis and will be able to assess the total costs of the procedure.

Dental prosthesis - Price

At DentArbre Dental Clinic, the costs associated with a dental prosthesis are:

Types of dental prosthesis Price RON
Acrylic prosthesis per arch 2.400 RON
Partial / total flexible prosthesis - Flexiplast 3.300 RON
Dental prosthesis repair 300 RON
Prosthesis on implants 7.500 RON

For more details on the rates of our services, please contact us.

How to make a dental prosthesis

Prosthetic treatment involves several important steps. Each contributes to the final result that ensures the functionality of the teeth and a pleasant aesthetic appearance.

Stages of dental prosthesis treatment

The stages of dental prosthesis treatment are:

The consultation: the dentist will assess the general condition of the oral cavity and identify any existing problems that need to be solved before starting the treatment. Also during the consultation, he will discuss all the treatment options suitable for the patient;

Impression: an impression of the dental arch and registration of the occlusion is made so that the prosthesis perfectly fits the patient's anatomical structure;

Making the prosthesis in the laboratory: after the impression, the prosthesis is manufactured in the dental laboratory, where the shape, color and dimensions necessary for a personalized result are taken into account;

Final fitting: After the prosthesis is made, adjustments are made to make the prosthesis fit and comfortable for the patient.

The time required to complete the prosthesis

The time required to complete the prosthesis varies depending on its type. For a classic denture, which does not include modern fastening systems, the patient will be able to use it in about a week after the impression is taken. In contrast, a fixed prosthesis on implants requires an interval of 4-6 months to complete, as it involves several steps, including the integration of the implants into the bone. The exact duration will be discussed with the dentist, depending on the final option chosen.

Oral hygiene when wearing dentures

Adequate oral hygiene should not be neglected when the patient wears dentures. Dentures must be properly sanitized to prevent plaque build-up and problems such as gingival irritation or infection. Also, if there are any remaining natural teeth, they should be properly cared for and brushed to prevent the growth of bacteria in the oral cavity. It is recommended to use dental floss to effectively clean the spaces between the teeth and the prosthesis, where the brush cannot reach.

The removable denture must be removed daily and cleaned with specially designed sanitizing solutions. The removable prosthesis should be left in these solutions to prevent drying and damage.

The benefits of dental prostheses

Dentures can bring many benefits to the patient. These include:

  • Restoring the natural appearance of the teeth. Dentures help with a natural smile, which can improve the patient's self-confidence;
  • Improving the functionality of the teeth. The prosthesis allows the patient to eat and speak more effectively;
  • Durability and flexibility. Dentures adapt to the shape of the oral cavity and are made of durable materials such as acrylic and chrome;
  • Improving oral health. Missing teeth can cause various oral conditions, and dentures help prevent them.

Frequently asked questions about dentures

Frequently asked questions about dentures relate to important aspects such as maintenance, fitting, care of dentures, but also the choice between dentures and dental implants.

Photo source: Unsplash, Freepik

Bibliography:

- www.webmd.com, https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures, accessed on 27.11.2024;

- www.nhs.uk, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/, accessed on 27.11.2024;

- my.clevelandclinic.org, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10900-dentures, accessed on 27.11.2024;

- www.bupa.co.uk, https://www.bupa.co.uk/dental/dental-care/treatments/dentures, accessed on 27.11.2024.

Dr. Nicoleta Taran

General Dentist
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Dr. Nicoleta Taran

Dr. Nicoleta Taran answers questions:

Removable dentures must be removed daily to be cleaned with special solutions. For complete sanitization, it is recommended to leave them in a cleaning solution. Fixed dentures are brushed like natural teeth. In both cases, rigorous oral hygiene helps prevent bacteria and gum problems.
This can take from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of prosthesis and the patient's habits. During the first two weeks, patients must wear the removable prosthesis permanently, including at night, to get used to it. For quick and effective adaptation, it is recommended to do diction exercises to help improve pronunciation.
You can start eating soft and easy-to-chew foods, especially during the adaptation period. These include soup, purees, yogurt, soft-boiled eggs, and well-cooked foods cut into small pieces. Hard, sticky or crunchy foods such as nuts, seeds, tough meat or chewing gum should be avoided. After the patient gets used to the prosthesis, he can gradually switch to more varied foods.
Removable dentures can be applied immediately after extraction in certain cases. For multiple extractions or in the lateral areas, it is recommended that the prosthesis be applied at least 1 month after the extraction.
The choice depends on several factors, including general health, available budget and patient preferences. Dental prosthesis is a more affordable and faster solution, being recommended for patients who do not want or cannot opt ​​for implants. On the other hand, dental implants are a permanent and natural solution, but involve a more complex process and a longer treatment period. The choice should be discussed with the dentist, who will analyze the needs and conditions of each patient.
Generally, for a removable denture, the process takes between 1 and 2 weeks. In contrast, fixed dentures such as those on implants may require a longer period of time, usually between 4 and 6 months, to allow the implants to fully integrate and the final prosthesis to be made. The dentist will provide additional details depending on the case.
In order to choose the best denture, you should talk to your dentist, who will assess your specific needs. Depending on the general condition of the oral cavity, the number of missing teeth and preferences related to comfort and aesthetics, dentist will recommend the best option.
This depends on the individual patient. The process generally takes between a few days and a few weeks. Adaptation is gradual, and wearing the prosthesis will become more and more natural as time goes by.
It depends on several factors, such as the type of prosthesis, the patient's oral hygiene, how it is used and the materials it is made of. Dentures generally last between 5 and 10 years.

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contact@dentarbre.com
București, Romania
Șoseaua Colentina, nr. 16, Bl. A1, Complex Rose Garden, Sector 2, Zona Obor - Colentina - Doamna Ghica