Dental prosthetics are devices designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They can be partial or complete, depending on the number of teeth to be replaced, and they are customized to fit the shape and size of each patient’s mouth.
The process of obtaining dental prosthetics involves several stages: initial evaluation, decision-making, personalized manufacturing, and follow-up visits for adjustments and maintenance. At this point, it is worth remembering the importance of a qualified dentist and dental technician to ensure a satisfactory outcome.
Here are all the advantages and considerations of dental prosthetics as an affordable alternative to dental implants.
When is a dental prosthesis necessary?
It is recommended to use a dental prosthesis when a person has lost one or more teeth or is missing teeth for any reason. However, before making a final decision, it is important to determine the appropriate type of prosthesis for your case. To do so, a specialist needs to evaluate your oral health status because, depending on your needs, these prostheses can be fixed or removable to replace one or more teeth or even part of your gums.
Real images of treatment
Importance of dental prosthetics
The main goal of dental prosthetics is to restore the functionality and aesthetics of the dental arch. It is crucial to consider them as a restorative treatment to avoid future problems that can affect speech and chewing. Their importance lies in the functions they fulfill:
- Prevent dental shifting to ensure proper alignment
- Maintain bite effectiveness
- Preserve facial harmony by preventing sagging and wrinkles in the area where teeth are missing
- Prevent gum recession
- Improve appearance and self-esteem
- Enhance speech and pronunciation by filling the gaps between teeth, which can cause difficulties in oral communication.
Types of dental prosthetics
Dental prosthetics can be classified based on insertion method, materials used, and duration. Although they all serve the same function of replacement and rehabilitation, each type requires different processes and care and must be placed following the appropriate specifications.
By insertion method
- Fixed dental prosthetics: Fixed prosthetics are connected to abutments, either cemented teeth or implants, using screwing or cementing methods as recommended by the dentist. These prosthetics are placed in the dental clinic and cannot be removed by the patient. They are very similar to natural teeth and can be regularly cared for and cleaned.
- Removable dental prosthetics: They can be partial or complete and are designed for patients who do not have enough bone for dental implants or have financial limitations to opt for them. Unlike the fixed prosthetics mentioned earlier, these devices must be removed daily for cleaning.
By material
- Acrylic: Acrylic prosthetics are made of a material that may include hooks for attachment. These prosthetics consist of a part that imitates the teeth and another pink part that replaces the gum. They are mainly used in removable complete prosthetics for temporary treatments and orthodontic cases.
- Metal-acrylic: They consist of a metal framework that provides stability and shape to the prosthesis. They are covered with the simulation of teeth or other components of the previous prosthesis. These prosthetics are commonly used in cases of removable partial implants.
- Metal-ceramic: These are dental devices in which the main structure is made of metal, such as nickel, chromium, and cobalt alloys, or even zirconia, a white-colored metal that offers aesthetic properties. This metal structure is fully covered with porcelain, which can be molded into various shapes. Metal-ceramic prosthetics are used in both fixed prosthetics on natural teeth and fixed prosthetics on implants, whether partial or complete.
- Ceramic: Also known as veneers, they are an aesthetic option used in situations similar to the previous prosthetics, but without including a metal structure. These veneers are cemented on the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance.
By duration
- Provisional prosthetics: They are designed for short-term use while other dental treatments are being carried out. They can last between 1 week and approximately 3 months.
- Long-term provisional: These prosthetics are also temporary but are made with more durable materials. They have a lifespan of approximately 3 to 9 months and are mainly used for patients who require surgical treatments. During this period, healing and adaptation are allowed.
- Definitive prosthetics: Designed for long-term use and are usually fixed implants. They are selected based on medical indications and the specific case of the patient.
It is important to note that at the beginning, during the adaptation process, it is possible to experience some discomfort with dental prosthetics since they are external objects to the human body and require a period of adjustment.
In any case, it is crucial for the patient to attend regular follow-up appointments to ensure oral health. Additionally, good oral hygiene is crucial to maintaining dental prosthetics in good condition.
Advantages
- Restore the aesthetics and functionality of the mouth
- Resistant to wear and tear
- Biocompatible
- Not affected by food temperature
- Customized to each patient’s needs
- A more affordable rehabilitation option than dental implants.
Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it is important to consider that dental prosthetics have certain disadvantages that should be taken into account:
- Removable prosthetics may not provide as firm of a fixation as fixed prosthetics.
- Fixed prosthetics can cause wear on adjacent teeth to which they are attached.
- Bite force may slightly decrease.
- They can wear down over time.
- They may cause irritation to the gums.
However, they are a necessary rehabilitation option if you are not a candidate for dental implants or need a more cost-effective solution.
Prodent MX
We focus on providing individualized and high-quality solutions for our patients. We have state-of-the-art technology that allows us to offer dental prosthetics tailored to your immediate needs.
Contact us for more information.