Dental prosthetics
Dental prosthetics is a procedure in which missing teeth are restored for a patient. The main goal is to replace the missing teeth, restore chewing function, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the mouth.
Dental prosthetics is necessary in the following cases:
- When one or more teeth are missing.
- In the event of tooth decay or fracture.
- To strengthen weakened teeth.
What are the methods of dental prosthetics?
- Fixed dental prosthetics.
- Removable dental prosthetics.
- Esthetic prosthetics.
Fixed dental prosthetics
- Dental prostheses are screwed onto implants.
- Single tooth prostheses (crowns) on natural teeth.
- Dental bridges. Usually attached to natural teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or to implants.
Dental crown is an artificial dental restoration that helps restore the natural shape of a tooth when it is chipped, discolored, or otherwise damaged. During prosthetic treatment, the dental crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth or screwed onto a dental implant.
Zirconia oxide crowns
Zirconia oxide has excellent biocompatibility with the human body, making it suitable even for allergic individuals.
Zirconia oxide is highly durable and long-lasting, and it does not contain metal, so it does not have the bluish tint characteristic of metal ceramic prosthetics. Teeth made from zirconia oxide appear very natural, like natural human teeth.
Zirconia oxide crowns are used for the restoration of darkened or severely damaged teeth. The crown masks the discoloration of the tooth and effectively reduces the risk of further damage, making it an excellent option for those who want to regain a healthy and natural-looking smile. When using this material for dental prosthetics, the natural teeth are minimally prepared, preserving their integrity. Zirconia oxide crowns do not cause inflammation of the gums surrounding the restored tooth, as the fit is precise, thereby reducing the likelihood of decay in the corners of the crown.
Metal ceramic crowns
Metal ceramic crowns are a commonly used method of dental restoration when there is a need to restore an individual natural tooth, dental bridge, or attach a crown to an implant. Metal ceramic crowns consist of a metal framework and a ceramic (porcelain) coating. Metal ceramics are known for their strength and durability, and they are also cost-effective, making them a popular choice among patients.
The drawback of metal ceramic crowns is their aesthetic appearance, as they are not translucent to light, resulting in darker-looking teeth and a visible gray line at the tooth’s neck. For this reason, it is not recommended to use metal ceramic crowns on front teeth that are highly visible.
Full metal crown
A full metal crown is one of the best options for the restoration of posterior teeth that require high durability and strength. It is also commonly used in bridge prosthetics where additional strength is necessary.
One of the main disadvantages of this type of crown is its inferior esthetic appearance compared to metal-ceramic crowns, although it is more cost-effective.
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Denture construction using removable appliances
- Acrylic (plastic) plates.
- Flexible (polyamide) plates.
- Clasp dentures with metal framework.
Full or partial acrylic plate
An acrylic (or plastic) denture plate is a custom-made removable dental prosthesis that is commonly used for complete jaw (full arch) dentures, but partial removable plates are also made. The prosthesis is made of acrylic resin and partially restores the chewing function. Despite providing better esthetics for the patient compared to having no teeth and allowing for eating, removable denture plates have some disadvantages:
- The plate is rigid and can fracture or break, requiring repair or replacement. The adaptation period in the mouth may be longer, and it can cause allergies in some individuals.
- The plate only restores about 30-40% of the chewing function.
- The plate does not prevent jaw bone resorption (bone loss).
Full or partial elastic plate
An elastic denture plate is a custom-made removable dental prosthesis that is commonly used for complete jaw (full arch) dentures, but partial removable plates are also made. The elastic base of the plate provides comfort, a natural appearance, and a lower risk of breakage compared to conventional denture plates. Elastic plates are softer, allowing them to adapt better to the gums without causing irritation.
This type of denture does not have conventional metal clasps; they are replaced with high-quality plastic that seamlessly blends with other existing natural teeth and gums.
Elastic denture plates do not cause allergies, which are commonly associated with traditional acrylic and metal-based denture plates.
The elastic material is resistant to odor absorption and the chemical effects of oral fluids.
Elastic dentures are durable, as they are lightweight and do not burden the gums. They quickly adapt to the oral mucosa and, most importantly, provide comfort.
Typically, the denture is fabricated through 4-5 visits to our clinic’s specialist. We use only high-quality certified materials and the most advanced technologies for its production.
Main disadvantages of an elastomeric denture:
- The denture only restores 30-40% of the chewing function.
- The denture does not prevent bone resorption in the jaw.
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Esthetic dentistry
Esthetic dentistry is commonly performed in the anterior teeth area. If a tooth is damaged, non-metal ceramic crowns are typically used. If a patient is unhappy with the color or shape of their teeth, but the teeth themselves are healthy, non-metal ceramic veneers are often applied.
The E-Max technique allows for precise, aesthetic, and resistant restorations. This type of ceramic opens up new possibilities for tooth restoration. It is considered one of the best choices for anterior and single-tooth prosthetics.
At our clinic, we use one of the most advanced types of non-metal ceramic, E-max, which is made of high-quality lithium disilicate material. This type of ceramic is four times stronger than regular ceramic used in metal-ceramic crowns.
One of the main advantages of E-max prosthetics is its ability to accurately replicate the structure of a damaged tooth. Teeth that have undergone root canal procedures are typically fragile and vulnerable. The E-max technology offers a perfect blend of aesthetics and longevity in restoring such teeth. Cracked teeth resulting from various traumas or large cavities can be ideally restored using E-max crowns. These crowns are translucent and natural-looking, blending seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
Attached crowns or dental laminates are color-matched to your natural tooth shade, ensuring that the crown or laminate is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Lingual arch prosthesis
A lingual arch prosthesis has a metal framework covered with plastic, into which plastic artificial teeth are inserted. It is a removable prosthesis that is held in place by clasps (special metal castings) around the teeth. It is used when there are missing molars on both the upper or lower jaw sides.
It is a better and more comfortable prosthesis than a simple denture because it evenly distributes the chewing load to the gums and the underlying jawbone beneath the gums, which helps slow down the resorption (atrophy) of the jawbone. However, it is still a removable prosthesis that cannot fully restore 100% of the chewing function.