Dental prosthesis is an advanced science in the field of restorative dentistry designed with the aim of replacing lost or damaged teeth.
Whether you are looking for fixed and permanent solutions or removable and flexible models, Dr. Bonyanian’s dental clinic is ready to use the latest technologies to provide you with the best possible outcome.
In the following, we will become more familiar with the types of dental prostheses and their respective features.
What is a Dental Prosthesis?
A dental prosthesis (Dental Prosthesis) is a type of dental device that replaces a missing tooth or covers a tooth defect. These dental devices include dental implants, crowns, bridges, artificial teeth, and dental veneers/crowns. Some of these prostheses are removable in the mouth, while others are fixed.
Of course, Dr. Bonyanian provided another definition for dental prosthesis in this article:
Dental prostheses are the best solution for repairing damaged or lost teeth, which, due to their unique design for each person, in addition to high functionality, also have a significant impact on the facial aesthetics of the jaw.
Types of Dental Prostheses
In general, dental prostheses can be divided into three categories:
- Fixed Dental Prosthesis
- Removable Dental Prosthesis
- Semi-Removable Dental Prosthesis
Fixed Dental Prosthesis
A fixed dental prosthesis is one of the various types of prostheses, also commonly known in society as a dental crown. Because if you use a fixed dental prosthesis, you cannot remove it from your mouth. For this reason, this dental prosthesis is categorized as a fixed prosthesis.
A fixed prosthesis can be placed on an implant or the patient’s natural tooth using special cement or a screw, and only the dentist you consulted for the crown placement can remove it from your mouth.
Fixed dental prostheses themselves have various types, some of which we will mention below:
1. Single Dental Crown
When the tooth structure is weak and needs protection and support, a crown can be used. Also, in some cases, dental crowns are used for aesthetic purposes. Some people have problems with chewing and swallowing due to missing some molars, and dental crowns help these individuals, making chewing easier for them.
2. Dental Bridges
Among the types of dental prostheses, dental bridges can be mentioned. A fixed dental prosthesis that is widely used is this type of prosthesis. This type of prosthesis is used when the patient has lost more than one tooth, and the missing teeth are located between two other teeth. In this case, the adjacent teeth are prepared (trimmed), and a bridge is placed between the natural teeth. Thus, the empty space between the teeth is filled, and the individual’s beauty is restored.
Read more: Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
3. Veneers
Dental laminates or veneers are one of the most modern approaches to solving aesthetic problems in advanced dentistry today. Laminate veneers are very thin and are bonded to the front surface of existing teeth. As a result of using laminates, you will have a more beautiful and natural smile than ever before.
4. Inlays and Onlays
In cases where tooth decay has severely damaged the tooth crown, or when the cavity created in the mouth is so large that traditional methods for filling the tooth cannot be used, inlays and onlays are employed.
Inlays and onlays are much more durable and stronger than dental crowns. Inlays and onlays are completely different from filling a tooth. In this method, the tooth structure is preserved, and after taking an impression, the specified part of the tooth is made in the laboratory.
5. Dental Implants
One of the replacements for tooth roots is the implant. A dental implant, with a strong base in the jaw, creates something like a real tooth for you. This piece is made of pure titanium, which is not harmful to the human body, and is shaped like a thin rod placed in the jawbone. Types of dental implants include:
- Endosteal: This type of implant is placed inside the jawbone and is currently the only type of implant used due to its greater strength.
- Subperiosteal: This type of implant is placed on the jawbone and under the gum tissue, and it is no longer used today.
Removable Dental Prostheses
A removable dental prosthesis can be easily placed on the gums and can also be easily removed from the mouth. If a person has had all their teeth extracted, they can use a full removable prosthesis.
In many cases, the patient may not feel good at the beginning of using this type of dental prosthesis, but with more use and the passage of time, this feeling will disappear.
One of the disadvantages of this type of prosthesis is the resorption of the jawbone over time. To prevent this problem, the jawbone should be checked every 1 to 2 years, and the bone should be replaced every 5 to 7 years.
Next, we will introduce types of removable dental prostheses.
1. Partial Prosthesis
A partial dental prosthesis, also known as a “partial denture,” is one of the most commonly used types of prostheses. It is interesting to know that partial prostheses themselves have different types, which we have mentioned below:
Acrylic Partial Denture (Flipper), Chrome Cobalt Partial Denture (Full Frame)
Note, however, that partial dental prostheses are not aesthetically pleasing due to their clasps.
2. Full Denture or Complete Denture
A full denture or complete denture is a type of removable dental prosthesis that is suitable for people who have no teeth in their mouth (for example, elderly people, grandparents, etc.).
However, these days, due to the existence of implants and then dental laminates, the use of full dentures or complete dentures has significantly decreased. Of course, it should be noted that dental implants are very expensive and costly compared to full dentures.
It is interesting to know that full prostheses are also available in two types: conventional and soft-lined. Both of these models consist of two parts: white (teeth) and pink (gums).
Note that cleaning soft-lined gums is very difficult and tedious. Also, the probability of bacteria and fungi growing and multiplying in the crevices of soft-lined gums is very high. For this reason, fewer people use full dentures these days.
Advantages of Removable Prostheses
Removable dental prostheses offer the patient control over them. In this type of prosthesis, there will be no need for adhesives or preparation (trimming) of adjacent teeth (in case of using partial prostheses).
Furthermore, these types of prostheses function like natural teeth; they fit comfortably in the mouth, enhance the beauty of the mouth and teeth, and make speaking and eating with them easy.
Semi-Removable Dental Prostheses (Overdenture)
An overdenture is a type of semi-removable dental prosthesis that is placed on two dental posts or several implant posts and is more comfortable than other prostheses. This type of dental prosthesis has a part called an attachment that connects to the teeth or implants.
This helps to keep the prostheses stable in the mouth. At the same time, semi-removable prostheses can also be taken out of the mouth and cleaned. Since the attachment part of semi-removable prostheses wears out and becomes unusable after some time, it is better to replace it.
Implant-Supported Overdenture
An overdenture is also a type of complete removable dental prosthesis that is placed on two dental posts or several implant posts. This device is much easier and more comfortable compared to a full denture, yet it is removable and therefore will not be as comfortable as a fixed dental prosthesis.
Comparison of Types of Dental Prostheses
| Feature | Fixed Prosthesis | Removable Prosthesis | Semi-Removable Prosthesis (Combination) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Prostheses permanently attached to teeth or implants. | Prostheses that can be removed from the mouth. | A combination of fixed and removable; some parts are fixed, and some are detachable. |
| Application | Permanent replacement of missing teeth. | Replacement of a few or all missing teeth with removability. | Replacement of specific dental cases requiring a combination of stability and flexibility. |
| Examples | Dental crown, bridge, implant-supported prosthesis. | Complete denture, partial denture. | Implant-supported prostheses with detachable components. |
| Comfort Level | Very comfortable (after adaptation). | May take some time to get used to. | Moderate comfort depending on design. |
| Lifespan | Long (with proper care). | Shorter than fixed prosthesis. | Moderate to long. |
| Cost | Higher compared to removable. | Lower cost. | Moderate to high. |
| Maintenance | Like natural teeth (brushing, flossing). | Requires daily removal and cleaning. | Combined maintenance of fixed and removable parts. |
| Advantages | Natural appearance, excellent function, long-lasting. | Lower cost, no need for surgery. | Balance between stability and removability. |
| Disadvantages | High cost, may require trimming of healthy teeth (in some cases for bridges). | Reduced chewing comfort, potential for looseness. | Requires special care and regular check-ups. |
Method of Making a Dental Prosthesis
After preparing the tooth (slight trimming of the tooth surface, removal of decay, etc.), the dentist takes an impression of the tooth.
The laboratory first creates a plaster model of the tooth and then places a metal frame and several layers of ceramic on this model. Finally, by considering individual features (such as tooth color), a more beautiful dental prosthesis that resembles the patient’s own teeth can be obtained.
What is a Flipper Denture?
A flipper denture, which many people also know by the name “dental flipper,” is a dental device used to replace one or more teeth. This device is usually a temporary solution used until a more permanent device, such as a dental implant or bridge, is placed on the tooth.
A flipper denture consists of an artificial tooth attached to a plastic or acrylic base. This device is molded to fit over the patient’s gums. The base of the flipper denture is usually colored to match the patient’s gum line and be less visible when worn.
Which Type of Prosthesis Should I Choose?
Regarding the choice of prosthesis type, the final decision should be left to the specialist dentist, as they have the most knowledge about the condition of your mouth and teeth.
The decision regarding the selection of the best dental prosthesis also largely depends on the number of damaged and missing teeth. For example, if all the teeth in one jaw are problematic, it is better to use artificial teeth or a full-arch prosthesis.
However, if only one or two teeth are damaged, you can proceed with treating those teeth and ultimately resolve the issue with a dental implant.
Advantages of Dental Prostheses
If you are one of those people who have lost several teeth and face problems with chewing, biting, speaking, etc., dental prostheses can be a suitable solution for you.
Prostheses are made completely customized and tailored to the shape and size of your mouth, and in their manufacturing stages, the laboratory makes every effort to prepare the best and most suitable prosthesis for your jaw.
Next, we will mention some of the advantages of dental prostheses:
- Prevention of damage to adjacent teeth: The use of dental prostheses prevents wear, abrasion, fracture, and damage to the remaining teeth.
- Prevention of natural teeth shifting: Dental prostheses prevent the shifting or tilting of the individual’s natural and original teeth.
- High flexibility: Removable prostheses can be easily removed from your mouth or returned to your mouth.
- Oral hygiene care: These prostheses help in the effective restoration and care of dental and oral health.
- Prevention of bone resorption: The use of dental prostheses prevents jawbone resorption.
- Improved quality of life: The use of dental prostheses for individuals who have lost their teeth leads to an improved quality of life and increased self-confidence.
What are the Complications of Dental Prostheses?
The presence of any foreign object in the mouth can be risky. Dental prostheses are no exception to this rule. Next, we will mention some of the potential complications of dental prostheses.
For detailed information on the symptoms of allergy to artificial teeth, refer to the relevant article.
1. Allergy and Sensitivity to the Prosthesis
Some individuals are allergic to the materials used in dental prostheses. Also, materials are used in the tooth crown that may increase this sensitivity. In this case, the tooth in the crown area is not well covered, and numerous problems arise for the patient. If you observe any type of allergy, contact your dentist immediately.
2. Discomfort in the Mouth Due to the Presence of a Foreign Object
In the initial days after the placement of a dental prosthesis, you may feel some discomfort, and the prosthesis may bother you a bit. This is because there is an extra object in your mouth. Rest assured that this feeling will disappear over time.
According to research, 90% of these cases improve after a while. However, if this feeling persists after some time, you should consult a dentist to find its root cause.
3. Loosening of the Tooth Crown in the Early Days
Dr. Nazanin Bonyanian explained that:
One of the common problems for many dental prosthesis applicants is the loosening of the tooth crown after prosthesis placement. You can prevent this problem by following the doctor’s instructions after prosthesis placement (such as consuming soft foods, chewing food slowly, and avoiding fatty foods).
Why Should Missing Teeth Be Replaced?
The first and most important reason for replacing missing teeth is to maintain oral and dental health and aesthetics. This is because failure to restore and replace teeth in a timely manner causes further damage to other teeth and even the enamel of healthy teeth.
Furthermore, after tooth extraction, there is a possibility of tooth shifting and movement towards the open space without a tooth. The result of this shifting is tooth decay and occlusal (bite) problems.
Moreover, posterior teeth tend to move forward. Now imagine what might happen if, for example, a first large molar in the lower jaw is lost.
Replacing and restoring teeth (especially anterior teeth) is one of the necessary measures to enhance facial beauty. This is because each individual has a unique smile. Additionally, since anterior teeth are visible in a smile, their beauty is of greater importance.
Another reason for the importance of replacing missing teeth is having healthy teeth for chewing and swallowing food. Because if food is not chewed properly, it will cause digestive problems.
In other articles, we have discussed topics such as “Home Treatment for Tooth Decay,” “Best Ways to Replace Missing Teeth,” and “Strengthening Tooth Enamel,” which you might find useful to read.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Prosthesis
The cost of a dental prosthesis depends on the factors we will discuss below:
- Type of prosthesis
- Number of teeth you intend to have prosthetically restored
- Laboratory cost for making the prosthesis
- Dentist’s fee
- And…
The cost of the prosthesis will vary depending on the factors mentioned above. Therefore, determining an exact and specific price for the prosthesis is a difficult task and requires a more detailed examination of your dental condition by a specialist dentist.
We have discussed the price of dental prostheses in a separate article.
Final Summary
In this article from Dr. Bonyanian’s dental clinic, we learned what a dental prosthesis is, how many types of dental prostheses exist, and in what situations these prostheses are used.
Dental prostheses require high-quality manufacturing in the laboratory and the skill of a specialist dentist for placement and longevity. This highlights the importance of choosing the best dental clinic and the best dentist.
Dr. Bonyanian’s dental clinic, with a skilled and experienced staff, cooperates with the best dental laboratories in Tehran and offers you the experience of using an excellent and high-quality dental prosthesis.
To get an appointment from Dr. Bonyanian’s dental clinic, please call 00982188539720 or visit us at our address: Unit 7, No. 22, Sixth St. West, Ahmad Qasir (Bokharest) St., Argentina Sq., Tehran.
Dr. Nazi Bonyanian
Dental Surgeon (DDS) — Medical Council Number: 138662
Graduate of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences with over 15 years of experience in implants, laminates, and oral and dental surgery.
Address: No. 22, Unit 7, West Alley 6, Bokharest Street, Argentina Sq., Tehran, Iran
Phone: +98-21-88539720 | WhatsApp: +98-912-514-2202
Email: info@drbonyanian.com
Working Hours: Sat–Wed 09:00–20:00 | Thu 09:00–14:00 | Friday Closed
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