A dental prosthesis refers to all artificial materials prepared to restore the chewing and speaking functions, as well as the aesthetic appearance, of teeth lost for various reasons. Tooth and bone loss may be observed when gum diseases cannot be treated effectively. With dental prostheses, such gum-related problems affecting oral health can also be managed. In addition to restoring oral health, dental prostheses help improve overall quality of life.
How Many Types of Dental Prostheses Are There?
Fixed Dental Prostheses: These are cemented dental prostheses such as crowns and bridges that cannot be removed by the patient.
Removable Dental Prostheses: These are dental prostheses that the patient can remove by themselves whenever desired.
Total Dental Prostheses: These are applied in cases where all teeth are missing.
Partial Dental Prostheses: These are applied in cases of partial tooth loss. Partial dental prostheses are retained using clasps and hooks attached to existing teeth.
Precision-Attachment Dental Prostheses: These are used in cases of partial tooth loss. Precision-attachment prostheses have aesthetic attachments that are not visible from the outside.
Implant-Supported Prostheses:
Fixed: These include crowns or bridges made with implant support.
Removable: These are prostheses similar to total dentures that are supported by implants.
Cleaning of Removable Dental Prostheses
Regular maintenance of dental prostheses is essential to protect the health of the tissues beneath the prosthesis and to prevent infections.
After meals, rinse your dental prosthesis with water to remove food residues.
Before going to bed, be sure to brush your dental prosthesis using toothpaste or specific denture care products.
Do not use abrasive substances while brushing your dental prosthesis.
Brush your dental prosthesis using a regular toothbrush or a special denture brush.
Clean your dental prosthesis weekly using effervescent denture cleaning tablets.