Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the artificial replacement of teeth that have been lost. The most common reasons for tooth loss are tooth decay and gum disease. There are certain conditions where the patient might not have a few or all teeth right from birth. Replacement is necessary even in such cases.
Depending on the bone level, oral hygiene, and the adjacent teeth, treatment can be either fixed or removable. There are various materials used for replacement, and cost varies accordingly. To know what type of treatment is best, the dentist completely checks the teeth and surrounding structures. After that, an X-ray is taken to check the bone level. In complicated cases, the dentist takes a mold of the patient's mouth and proceeds with further treatment.
Removable Dentures
These types of dentures can be removed and placed by the patient and do not require the help of a dentist. These dentures are given for temporary replacement or in case of very little bone and to maintain the space of missing teeth. For this, the dentist makes a mold of the patient's mouth and sends it to the laboratory. The technician makes the denture with teeth and a gum-like part. The dentist will then place it in the patient's mouth. This is a time-saving treatment.
Fixed Dentures
This type of denture cannot be removed or placed by the patient. These dentures are for permanent replacement of teeth with healthy bone and healthy adjacent teeth. For fixed dentures, the dentist grinds the teeth adjacent to the missing teeth and then takes the mold. This is sent to the laboratory, where the technician designs the artificial teeth, which are then fixed into the patient's mouth. This cannot be given if the adjacent teeth are too shaky.
Complete Dentures
These types of dentures are for the replacement of the entire set of teeth and can be removed by the patient. The most common reason for losing a complete set of teeth is gum disease, which results in teeth shaking. In the case of a good bone level, complete dentures can be supported by implants (screws). Usually, patients without teeth lack nutrition, as they cannot eat much, so it is very important to replace the teeth. It also increases self-confidence as the face looks full and healthy with the denture.
Full Mouth Rehabilitation
Placement of a complete set of fixed caps on the affected teeth and missing teeth is called full mouth rehabilitation. It may or may not be supported by implants. It is done in cases of many missing teeth in the upper and lower jaw. It is also done in patients with night grinding habits, where the tooth structure gets reduced in length. This is usually done in adults to completely transform their smile.
Dental Crowns for Implants
Dental implant placement has two phases. Phase 1 involves surgically placing the implant into the bone. Phase 2 involves placing the dental crown (the visible part of the tooth in the mouth) over the implant. In Phase 2, the dentist makes a mold of your mouth and sends it to the lab. The lab technician makes a dental crown for the implant. The dentist then fixes the crown over the implant.
Facial Prosthesis
Prosthodontics not only deals with the replacement of teeth, but also the replacement of damaged facial structures. When a defect in the face cannot be corrected surgically, a prosthesis is required to change the look of it. The most common prostheses for the face are for the nose, eyes, and ears. Like artificial teeth, the facial prosthesis is fixed either with the help of implants or adhesives.
Related Services
- Dental Implantology — implant-supported dentures and crowns
- Root Canal Treatment — saving teeth before considering prosthetics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery — surgical support for complex cases