Dental prosthetics is often a forced and necessary method of treatment, but modern medicine has advanced so much that there are plenty of opportunities for such an event.

You can choose exactly the method of prosthetics that best suits your needs, while the aesthetic appeal will remain at a high level.

Conventionally, prostheses can be divided into two groups:

• fixed;
• removable.

Each type has both advantages and disadvantages; they are not applicable in every case.

Let's set it once and for all

What types of fixed dentures are there? For example, with the help of a crown you can restore a tooth even if it is almost half destroyed. To install this prosthesis, it is enough to have a strong, healthy root. used when there is a threat to the health and preservation of the tooth, as well as to improve its appearance.

The denture is fixed to the remaining part using dental cement. Crowns are made from a wide range of materials, which varies in price and service life.

Photo shows crown installation

The advantages of this type of prosthetics include:

• wide variety of materials;
• relatively low price;
• long service life;
• positive result.

This method, however, has a significant drawback, in particular, the need to grind the tooth down to 2.5 mm and depulp it.

The process requires breaking the integrity of the surface tissue, which is undesirable in the case of a healthy tooth.

Lumineers - modern and beautiful

For aesthetic purposes, they are used for the restoration of the anterior teeth. They are mini dentures that are placed over the front part of the tooth. This requires turning the surface up to 1 mm.

There is a more advanced variety, called one that is not accompanied by turning. The prosthesis is so thin that when glued on top of a tooth it does not seem unnatural.

The advantage of this type of denture is the high degree of attractiveness of the smile, but this method is not able to cope with serious damage to the tooth.

The prosthesis can cover only one part of the tooth, while the inner zone must be healthy. The main disadvantages of the method are the short service life and high cost.

Bridge supported by your own teeth

Bridge structures are a prosthesis consisting of several cast-type crowns. This method helps to hide the absence of one or more teeth. To install a bridge, you need at least two supporting teeth; if they are missing, implants are used.

The bridge resembles a row of teeth that covers the missing areas and is secured at the edges. There is a huge variety of materials for this prosthesis, so it can be used to imitate a set of teeth similar to natural ones.

The method has many positive characteristics. These include:

• aesthetics of the dentition;
• relatively affordable price;
• comfortable to wear and easy to care for.

Adhesive bridge

Prosthetic bridges are only permissible on absolutely healthy teeth, but it does not eliminate the need for grinding when resting on them.

In this regard, due to excessive stress, teeth may become mobile over time. Lack of pressure under the middle part of the bridge often leads to bone atrophy.

An alternative is adhesive prosthetics, which in essence resembles a bridge, but the fastening is not fixed to a ground support, but to the adjacent teeth using a metal frame.

can be called the most expensive method of prosthetics, but it is the most durable. With the right approach to choosing treatment, as well as following all the dentist’s recommendations, you can get a durable artificial root that will not need to be replaced later.

The implanted pin provides a strong foundation for a bridge or crown, which does not require grinding down adjacent teeth. This method is reliable but has many limitations.

In addition, there is a risk of foreign body rejection, as a result of which the surgical intervention will have to be repeated.

False teeth - clack, clack, clack

Removable plate dentures

Which teeth are better to insert? This question is asked by patients who have a significant dental defect and want to learn more about modern dental capabilities.

They have their own characteristics, and a large group of consumers prefer them. Often there are plate dentures, which are a section of gum and dental crowns that cover missing areas of teeth.

The plates can be complete throughout the entire row or partially removable, which are installed on a specific area.

For partial removable dentures, a prerequisite is the presence of at least several healthy teeth on which the structure will be installed. The support for completely removable laminar dentures is the gums or palate.

Fastening occurs due to suction properties; additional use is often required. Such designs are often called suction cup dentures.

Fastening with locks

This method of prosthetics differs in price depending on the material. In general, removable structures require careful care, since after eating, food debris can accumulate under them.

Getting used to such dentures is not always easy; diction and taste are often impaired.

There are also conditionally removable bridge structures that are easy to remove and fasten yourself, without outside help. Fastening is carried out using special locks that are installed on adjacent teeth, and there is no need to grind them down.

This type of prosthetics is attached not only to healthy teeth, but also to implants and crowns, and this is the main advantage of the design. In general, this method does not have significant drawbacks.

Materials for prosthetics

Materials may vary depending on the type of prosthetics. Thus, for fixed dentures the main raw materials are:

In dentistry, the above-mentioned materials are often combined to achieve the desired effect. Metal is considered the most reliable and durable, but it does not have the aesthetic qualities that are characteristic of ceramics.

In this regard, the most preferable option would be a metal-ceramic prosthesis, which has a steel frame and an external design made of zirconium oxide.

The prosthesis is highly durable and aesthetically pleasing, but its price is significantly higher than that of its analogues. They are plastic and inexpensive, but they can last no longer than two to three years. In addition, artificial material is susceptible to external factors.

Other materials are used to make removable dentures:

• acrylic;
• Akri Free;
• nylon;
• acetal polyurethane;
• clasp designs.

Acrylic structures, due to their nature, are susceptible to external influences. The material loses its original appearance and acquires a specific smell and color over time.

It takes a long time to get used to it; the prosthesis often falls off during eating due to the rigidity of the base.

Acetal denture

A new technique in the manufacture of removable structures is Akri Free. The attachment base is made of acrylic translucent resins, invisible on the gums. The material is flexible, so the service life of the equipment is long.

The only drawback of such prosthetics is the high cost of manufacturing, which is not inherent in other materials of removable structures.

Nylon and acetal dentures are close in their properties to Acre Free technology. They do not rub the gums and fasten well, the service life is quite long, and the aesthetic appearance is of a high level.

True, this material also has its drawbacks:

Can be called the most perfect method for a removable type. The design is made with a focus on the patient’s characteristics; the load is distributed evenly across the jaw.

The aesthetic appearance of the structure is excellent, but the price of clasp dentures is corresponding. However, this method is one of the most durable for removable dentures.

The only drawback is the long production time. It is necessary to visit the dentist more than once so that he can adjust the design down to the millimeter.

Thoughts of ordinary people

Prosthetics have already become so popular that many people have permanent structures that others don’t even know about. Patient reviews only contribute to making the right decision in favor of various prostheses: removable and permanent.

I struggled with the tooth for a long time and couldn’t hold it together at all. As soon as it was installed, within a week it began to deteriorate, then large pieces fell off, after a couple of months I went to the dentist again. After a couple of replacements, the dentist suggested installing a crown; there was so little left of his tooth, and such frequent fillings could completely ruin it.

The procedure for cutting down the tooth was painless, and the crown was ready quite quickly. I thought it would be unusual with metal ceramics, but overall I don’t see any noticeable difference. I've been happy for a year now, I don't have any problems. According to the dentist, I can still go through ten more without any problems.

Oksana, Smolensk

My front teeth have become completely wobbly, I’ve already lost a couple of them, and I don’t really want to eat anything but porridge and mashed potatoes. When I went to treat a tooth, the dentist suggested a bridge structure that would not only strengthen the teeth, but would also look attractive. Of course, appearance is not particularly important to me, but the opportunity to eat apples is what I need. I had to wait about a month, but now I have a stable prosthesis that is nice to look at.

Victor Ivanovich, Samara

I have terrible teeth, the row in front is uneven, and even the pronounced yellowness has always confused me. It was already too late to fix anything, and there was no particular desire, but my friend got veneers for herself. After consulting a dentist, I came to the conclusion that this was a suitable solution. Now I walk with a beautiful smile, my self-esteem has increased significantly.

Olga Sergeevna, Moscow

I didn’t dare to get permanent dentures, and I need so much money. The doctor suggested trying removable plates first. I've been going with them for several months now, I'm happy with everything. True, the realization still comes that the permanent ones will be even better.

Kristina, Ryazan

Questions for the dentist

What to do if there are complete absence of teeth?

the only option is complete removable dentures. The plates are attached with suction cups to the gums and hard palate. The patient can choose the most suitable option as a material; Acree Free is more advanced.

Due to the complex fixation in the lower jaw, in the absence of teeth it is often recommended to resort to implants, which are easier to attach to other types of dentures. This will ensure the reliability of the design and facilitate the process of chewing food.

Which temporary prosthesis for the front teeth is better?

It is better to install a temporary crown on the front teeth, and it is not necessary to choose expensive material. Many dentists suggest using polymer dentures, which are quickly manufactured and have a pleasant appearance, but a short service life.

This type of prosthesis is especially good after the installation of implants, since for the best effect a load on the pin and the surrounding gum is necessary. The crown will perform this function, and when installing a permanent prosthesis, an undesirable reaction will no longer follow.

The photo shows an adhesive prosthesis of the upper incisor

Another option is an adhesive bridge, which fills the empty space with the appearance of a natural tooth. A huge advantage of this method is that neighboring teeth are not subject to significant intervention. In some cases, minor indentations may be required, but this can be done by building up a filling that is subsequently polished.

As a temporary prosthesis, you should never install removable dentures attached to the gums with Velcro, as the tissue will deform over time. As a result, plastic surgery may be required before installing a permanent prosthesis, regardless of its type. This will complicate the process and increase the cost of the procedure.

Which prostheses are best?

The choice of prostheses should, first of all, be based on the need to return the main function of the organ - chewing. For many, along with it, the aesthetic component is also important.

There is not a patient who is not interested in the issue of price. All these factors should be taken into account, and only the dentist will help you choose the most suitable option according to the patient’s characteristics.

Depending on how many teeth are missing and the overall degree of damage to surrounding teeth, a preference may be given to permanent prosthetics, such as crowns or bridges. Fixed prosthetics do not require special care.

To restore aesthetic appeal, veneers are usually installed, but if there are problems with chewing function, it is better to give preference to more stable options, for example, implants.

What types of dental prosthetics are there and how to choose the right one for you will be told by your dentist:

Most often, dental problems arise due to bad habits, hereditary predisposition and poor oral hygiene. Today, the loss of natural teeth is not a problem, thanks to the fact that modern dentures or bridges can be installed in their place.

The patient's new smile depends on what dentures the patient chooses - partial, removable or fixed. That is why each type of dental prosthetics must be studied in as much detail as possible, weighing the pros and cons. It is also useful to look at photos and videos of all types of dental prosthetics.

Objectives of dentures

Dental prosthetics means restoring their functions in whole or in part. That is, lost or severely damaged teeth can be easily replaced with dentures, characterized as removable, partial or fixed.

The purpose of dentures is to return the oral cavity to the state that is necessary for its normal functioning. The absence of even a small edge of a tooth negatively affects the entire jaw and displaces the entire dentition. Such changes can disrupt the bite, which is reflected in the face, often making it less attractive.

The absence of one or more teeth entails a change in diction. A smile defect also negatively affects a person’s self-esteem, becoming the cause of many complexes.

That is why it is possible to install one denture or several. Thanks to the variety of designs, you can choose the most optimal type of dental prosthetics.

Let us note that dentures (partial and complete) come in a variety of varieties - removable and non-removable, cheaper and more expensive. Partial dentures will help hide dental imperfections - unevenness, chips, cracks. Partial dentures are the most financially accessible. Photos of partial implants, as well as removable and other types of bridges are presented in the article.

What are the indications and contraindications?

As for the indications for prosthetics, they include:

• destruction of the crown, in which the roots are preserved in a strong and motionless state;
• malformation of enamel, where its intensive abrasion is observed;
• adentia, characterized as primary or secondary;
• complete absence of teeth in the entire oral cavity.

Before you start planning dental prosthetics, make sure there are no contraindications to the procedure:

• poor oral hygiene;
• the presence of stomatitis of any classification;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• neuropsychiatric disorders;
• lack of jaw bone volume.

Types of fixed products

Fixed dentures are used when the patient has lost only a few teeth (see also: new generation fixed dentures: types of prosthetics and photos). Often these prostheses are used to hide frontal defects. With the help of fixed prosthetics, you can change the color of the enamel and the shape of the incisors, or strengthen them after treatment. The following types of dentures exist:

• crowns, which are placed on both natural teeth and artificial ones;
• structures characterized as bridge-like;
• partial (inlay) dentures used as fillings;
• veneers and luminars.

Installation of crowns

In the manufacturing process of prosthetic structures such as crowns, different materials are used. Each of them has its own characteristics and is distinguished by different indicators of strength and aesthetics. Costs vary depending on the material used to make the crown. More often, a material such as cobalt-chromium alloy is used to make crowns. Crowns made of metal-free ceramics and metal-ceramics are no less in demand.

Installation of metal-ceramic crowns is possible for any teeth - both incisors and chewing teeth. This class of crowns is the most popular, as it has a reasonable price and considerable attractiveness. With their help, you can even replace your front teeth with prosthetics.

The metal-ceramic crown contains a metal frame covered with a ceramic layer. This layer is not transparent, so for patients who have transparent tooth enamel on their front teeth, metal-ceramic dentures are not suitable. Such dentures are very different from natural teeth, which attracts attention and does not look very presentable. Metal ceramics are better suited for chewing teeth.

The best option for prosthetics of the upper front teeth are ceramic crowns made from porcelain. The material has excellent color properties and is able to “disguise” as well as natural teeth, both in the color of the enamel and in its transparency.

There are also crowns made entirely of metal. Of course, they cannot boast of aesthetics, so they are installed only on chewing teeth - they are invisible when talking and smiling. The biggest advantage of this version of crowns is that the tooth is ground down much less before their installation, compared to metal-ceramic products.

New generations of implants

The most modern method of dental prosthetics is the installation of modern dentures, which are called new generation implants. This method of prosthetics involves implanting a special root made of artificial material into the bone. This root is necessary as a reliable support on which the crown or prosthesis will be held.

The advantage of new generation implants is that chewing function is restored almost completely. These implants have good attractiveness, due to which they can be placed even in the front. Dentures from the new generation follow the anatomical shape of the tooth and do not harm the teeth in the neighborhood. Attaching restorative implants is possible when treating both lower and upper teeth.

What is microprosthetics?

Microprosthetics involves a procedure in which a special shell, a veneer, is applied to a defective tooth. They are made from materials such as porcelain or ceramics. The tooth, placed in a porcelain or ceramic shell, becomes full and aesthetically attractive again. The main advantage of veneers is that before installation, the tooth is not completely worn down and remains alive.

In addition to veneers, the process of microprosthetics involves the use of so-called inlays (partial dentures). They make teeth stronger and are used in the form of a filling, due to which, after installing such inlays, it is necessary to treat the tooth and install a crown (we recommend reading: how is a tooth prepared for the installation of an inlay and further prosthetics?).

Classification of removable dentures

Almost all removable structures differ from the previous ones in that they can be easily removed and then inserted back yourself. Such dentures must be removed before going to bed and when brushing your teeth, since removable dentures are difficult to secure to the jaw. There is only one type of removable dentures that fit well in the oral cavity - clasp insert structures (we recommend reading: what types of clasp dentures are there?).

The use of removable bridges is used if the patient has a large gap in the dentition or no teeth at all.

There are such types of dentures and bridges as:

• lamellar;
• clasp

Partially removable

The products are installed on patients who cannot be fitted with another type of prosthesis. To install partial dentures, you must have several natural teeth in your mouth - your own teeth support the removable structure.

Often dentures, characterized as partially removable, are used to replace several teeth at once. Moreover, they can be attached both from below and from above without any problems. The structures can be installed at almost any age. Photos of partial dentures will help in choosing prosthetics.

Removable

Fully removable dentures are made from materials such as acrylic and nylon. Such dentures are a solid plate on which there is the required number of teeth along with simulated gums. Dental jaws made of acrylic have an attractive price, due to which they are often used by elderly people with complete edentia. They must be removed at night, as sleeping with such dentures is not comfortable.

As for nylon dentures, they have more advantages than acrylic ones: they are more comfortable to wear and even at night they can be left on. However, nylon dentures often become deformed from chewing, which occurs over time.

The highest quality and most durable are clasp removable dentures, photos of which are presented in the article. They are distinguished by their attractive appearance and ease of use. Due to the fact that clasp dentures have a very high cost, not everyone can afford them.

Pros and cons of types of prostheses

Each type of prosthesis has its own advantages and disadvantages. When planning this type of procedure and determining which option is better, it is necessary to take into account every plus and minus.

Fixed prosthetics are popular because they can help you regain lost teeth for some reason. This type of prosthetics has the following advantages:

• highly reliable fastening;
• use of high-quality equipment during installation;
• convenience during use;
• high aesthetics;
• usual care, similar to caring for your teeth.

Disadvantages of fixed prostheses:

• installation complexity;
• not suitable for patients without many teeth.

As for removable dentures, they have the following advantages:

• external attractiveness;
• good cost, which allows them to be used by a large number of patients;
• 100% versatility.

About the disadvantages of this type of prosthetics:

The patient decides which prosthesis is best to install, taking into account all the indicators of each individual type. Before choosing dentures, it is very useful to watch a video about these designs.

Material of manufacture

The materials used for the manufacture of various types of dentures must be highly resistant to food and saliva. In addition, it is better if they have ideal compatibility with the tissues in the human oral cavity. The materials must have excellent hypoallergenic properties, as well as all other indicators inherent in natural teeth.

Pay attention to the appearance of the dentures - it should be as similar as possible to the patient’s teeth. Let us remind you that dentures are made of metal-ceramics, ceramics and plastic.

Criteria for choosing a clinic for high-quality prosthetics

Having decided which artificial teeth are best to install, we proceed to choosing a clinic for this procedure. When choosing a clinic for dental treatment through prosthetics, pay attention to how many years it has been offering this type of service to its clients. Wholesale is the main indicator of reliability and quality of services. It is useful to study reviews about the selected clinic and its leading specialists.

When choosing a medical facility, pay attention to the cost of dental prosthetics. The high cost of a dental price list does not always indicate 100% quality.

If, after prosthetics, for example, an upper tooth moves, this means that you need to urgently consult a doctor. This may indicate unreliable attachment of the prosthesis to the gum.

They are popularly called “false teeth.” Such dentures are used in case of complete loss of natural teeth, or in case of loss of most of them.

Fully removable

Completely removable dentures are widely used among older people who have lost teeth as a result of age-related changes. Also, removable dental systems can be used as a temporary measure, for example, in preparation for the installation of fixed ones.

This type of prosthesis has become widespread due to its almost one hundred percent compatibility and the absence of contraindications.

There are no big differences in the design of completely removable dentures; they are all a copy of a person’s dentition with a plate that serves to secure it to the gums (the so-called denture base). How to fix the structure in the absence of teeth? The removable denture is held in the mouth using a suction cup principle.

Completely removable dentures also do not differ from each other in appearance, since they copy the natural appearance and color of healthy teeth. The differences between different types of completely removable systems are associated with the material used for their manufacture.

Made of plastic

Plastic dentures are among the most affordable types of dental prosthetics. Most often, plastics based on polymerized acrylic acid are used for production, which is why plastic dental structures are also called acrylic. Artificial teeth made of ceramic or porcelain are mounted on plastic arches.

Thanks to the plasticity of acrylic, the plastic prosthesis “adjusts” its shape to the shape of the patient’s jaw within a short time, which reduces the adaptation time. Usually, a few days are enough to get used to the acrylic structure.

Unfortunately, in addition to accessibility and convenience, a plastic prosthesis based on polymerized acrylic also has a number of significant disadvantages:

• The plasticity of acrylic polymers, which makes it easier to get used to the prosthesis, at the same time makes the structure less resistant to variable loads associated with chewing food. The very principle of fastening in the mouth requires a tight fit of the prosthesis arches to the patient’s jaw protrusions; otherwise, suction is impossible. Subjected to variable loads, the plastic prosthesis becomes loose, loses its precision of shape and, along with it, its tightness. As a result, it may simply fall out, putting the patient in an awkward position.
• Despite all the advances in the denture industry, the aesthetics of plastic dentures still leave much to be desired. False teeth made of plastic are “conspicuous” by their artificiality. The base of an acrylic prosthesis can be distinguished from real gums at first glance just as easily as the plastic “skin” of a mannequin is distinguished from living human skin.
• For the production of acrylic plastic prostheses, casting is usually used - pouring liquid plastic into molds. While the plastic is in a liquid state, microscopic bubbles form in it, which is why its surface has a porous structure. The pores retain the smallest food debris, serving as a habitat for microorganisms, including pathogens.
• Premature wear is not the worst thing that a user of a plastic prosthesis will have to face. The fact is that acrylic-based plastics contain a by-product of acrylic polymerization - methyl methacrylate.

Methyl methacrylate is an ester of methacrylic acid. Toxic, has a depressant effect on the nervous system, as well as the liver and kidneys. Strong allergen.

The modern chemical industry produces highly purified dental plastics, making toxic poisoning with methyl methacrylate almost impossible, but allergic reactions to this dangerous chemical may well occur. Indeed, for the development of allergies, in some cases, the body’s contact with literally several allergen molecules is sufficient.

Due to the disadvantages described above, long-term use of plastic dentures is not recommended, and this must be taken into account when deciding which false teeth to choose. It is better to use plastic structures as temporary ones, or for short periods of time: during meals or “on the go.”

Made from nylon

Modern methods of dental prosthetics involve the use of a more advanced material - nylon - as a basis for the base. Nylon prostheses are flexible, elastic, wear-resistant. Although they are more expensive than acrylic ones, they have significant advantages over them:

• Nylon does not emit toxic substances.
• Nylon is hypoallergenic; the components included in nylon do not cause allergic reactions.
• The surface of nylon has a solid, non-porous structure, which has a beneficial effect on the hygiene of using nylon prostheses.
• Nylon has improved aesthetics; the base of a nylon dental structure looks like living gum.

Perhaps the only drawback of nylon prostheses is their higher price. However, it is worth paying attention to the following point. Unlike hard plastic structures, nylon cannot distribute the chewing load evenly. Constant chewing on one side leads to gum inflammation and bone atrophy.

A nylon denture cannot distribute the force across the entire jaw area, so you will have to take on this work yourself. When using a nylon denture, be sure to alternate sides when chewing.

Types of partial dentures

Completely removable dental structures that use the principle of suction cups to hold them in the mouth, regardless of the material of manufacture, have a serious drawback - unreliable fixation in the oral cavity. Therefore, dentists, whenever possible, look for a fulcrum in the patient’s mouth with which to reliably strengthen the prosthesis. This “fulcrum” is the patient’s preserved natural teeth. Systems fixed by attachment to natural teeth are called partial dentures.

In the photo: various types of removable dentures

Partially removable dental systems are also made of acrylic plastics or nylon, because they have all the advantages and disadvantages inherent in these materials. But unlike removable dentures, partially removable dentures can differ quite seriously in design.

Based on their design, partially removable dentures are divided into groups:

1. One-sided partially removable.

For all types of partially removable dentures, a classification by type of fixation device is also used.

Clasp dentures are rightfully considered the most advanced among partially removable ones. This is one of the best methods of dental prosthetics. The principle of their operation is based on the principle of load redistribution using arc elements (“clasp” means “arc”). This achieves both delayed wear of the structure and the absence of increased local loads on the tissues and bones of the jaw.

In the photo: types of removable clasp dentures

According to the method of fixation, clasp structures are divided into prostheses:

1. With clasps.
2. On micro locks.

With clasps

All partial dentures are fixed in the patient's mouth by attaching to healthy teeth. One of the options for devices for such connection are clasps. Clasps are metal devices that, due to their special shape, reliably cover a healthy tooth, fixing the structure. The main advantage of this fixation option is that it does not require any manipulation of healthy teeth. Unfortunately, such designs have a significant drawback, which, although it does not affect the health of the owner, can cause some inconvenience. The disadvantage is that metal clasps are very visible when talking. Because of this, many are embarrassed to wear dentures with clasps and prefer systems with attachments.

On attachments (on micro-locks)

Retention devices built into a dental crown that fits over a healthy tooth. The second part of such a device is fixed on the prosthesis. The two parts of the attachment are connected like a lock, and the entire structure is securely fixed. The attachments are made in such a way that when the prosthesis is in the mouth, all “unnatural” parts of the structure are securely hidden from the eyes of an outside observer.

During the installation of a crown, which serves as a point for fixing the attachment, the tooth on which the crown is placed is ground down. Thus, the use of dentures with micro-locks leads to forced violation of the integrity (actually damage) of a healthy tooth.

On telescopic crowns

They are one of the options for installing an attachment. The crown in which the attachment is mounted is not placed on the tooth, but on a permanently installed crown on the tooth. In this case, one crown fits into the other, like parts of a retractable spyglass. This design is necessary in the case of prosthetics for a large number of teeth to improve the reliability of fixation.

Single-sided partially removable

There is no doubt that clasp structures are convenient and reliable, but, unfortunately, they are not always applicable. After all, their design is based on an arch, and the arch obviously needs two points of support, so it is advisable to use clasps when making prosthetics on both sides of the jaw at once. What to do in this case? There are modern methods of prosthetics for teeth located on one side of the jaw.

• Plate dentures are one or more ceramic artificial teeth on a nylon or acrylic plastic base. The structure rests on the gum and is fixed to adjacent teeth with metal clasps.
• Dental segments are fundamentally little different from plate structures, but are intended to replace b O greater number of teeth. Tooth segments are usually fixed with attachments on conventional or telescopic crowns, since fixation with clasps is not reliable enough for them.

Immediate dentures

In their design, immediate dentures resemble clasp dentures, lacking the clasp itself, that is, the arch. These are simple and inexpensive designs used only as a temporary measure while awaiting the manufacture of a permanent removable prosthesis or surgery to install a fixed prosthesis. For fastening, simple fixation is used to two adjacent teeth using acrylic clasps or suction cups. There are two main types of immediate dentures:

• Full. They are designed to completely replace, albeit for a short time, a lost tooth in all its functions. That is, with such a prosthesis you can fully chew moderately solid food.
• Partial. They are intended more to perform a “representative function”, to protect exposed gums from inflammation and damage, as well as to prevent healthy teeth from shifting to the place of removed ones. When using this type of temporary structures, it is recommended to consume only liquid and semi-liquid food or relatively solid food that does not require chewing effort (sausages, except hard smoked sausages, well-stewed meat, chopped cutlets, etc.).

Conditionally removable

Conditionally removable are small structures that usually replace one lost tooth. There are two types:

• A conditionally removable denture with clasps is attached to adjacent teeth using metal fixing devices.
• Bonded conditionally removable prosthesis. The specificity of prosthetics for an individual tooth allows the structure to be fixed with special dental glue.

There is no need to regularly remove such a prosthesis, and in the case of installation with glue it is generally difficult, which is why they are called conditionally removable.

Types of permanent (fixed) dentures

Without exception, all types of removable dental structures have such disadvantages as a decrease in the quality of fixation over time, clogging of food particles under the denture, and unnatural loads when chewing. If you want to avoid these inconveniences, then you may want to opt for fixed, permanent dentures. What types of permanent dentures are there?

Types of implants

The use of dental implants is the most radical method of dental prosthetics. The implant is placed directly into the patient's jaw (bone or gum) and serves as a base for an artificial tooth.

Implantation of a metal body into the jaw is a serious and responsible operation, the consequences of which, if performed poorly, can be the most tragic. Implantation should be performed only in certified clinics.

Chemically inactive, highly resistant alloys made from various high-strength metals are used as materials for the manufacture of implants.

• Root-shaped implants are the most physiological and natural form of prosthetics. A root-shaped implant is made in the form of a tooth root and is installed in its place.
• Plate implants are used if the installation of a root-shaped implant is impossible due to destruction of the periosteum of the jaw in the event of injury or disease. A plate is implanted into the jaw, which has a better degree of fixation due to its larger area.
• Basal implants used in cases of serious jaw damage. In design they resemble plate ones, but are installed on a b O greater depth - into the jaw bone.
• Submucosal implants, as their name implies, are installed under the mucous membrane of the gums. They are usually used to install dentures for front teeth that do not experience heavy chewing loads.

Types of bridges

Bridges or dental bridges are dentures that replace a number of adjacent teeth and, like a bridge, have two or more points of support. What types of dental bridges are there?

• Dental bridges on implants are supported by two, rarely three, intramaxillary implants. Such prosthetics are used in cases of complete loss of a number of chewing teeth.
• Dental bridges on crowns. If implantation is not possible for one reason or another, healthy teeth can be used as bridge supports by placing crowns on them. The disadvantage of this method is damage to healthy teeth during the grinding process to install crowns.
• Crown bridges. If adjacent teeth are not completely lost, but are severely damaged, then they can not be removed, but used as a support for a bridge. A number of teeth are ground down and one large crown-bridge is placed on them.

Types of microprostheses

• Dental crowns- the most common type of microprosthesis. Crowns are used if the base of the tooth is preserved and can serve as the basis for a prosthesis. The crown is placed on the so-called dental stump - a specially ground outer part of the tooth. The materials used for making crowns are metal-ceramics, porcelain, stainless steel and titanium alloys. Aesthetic crowns are also made from precious metals, often inlaid with precious stones.
• Veneers. Veneers are thin plates made from a tooth impression and placed on the outer, visible side of the dentition. Made from porcelain and composite materials. They can serve to protect the tooth, but usually play a purely aesthetic role. They gained wide popularity among politicians, actors, theater and film workers.
• Dental inlays represent a compromise between a filling and a crown. They are used when there is significant damage to the tooth, in which it is difficult to install a filling, but it is still possible to save part of the tooth without culturing. The inlay is usually made of ceramic based on a cast of a tooth that is symmetrical to the one being prosthetized.

Which ones to choose?

As you can see, the range of types of prosthetics offered by modern dentistry is huge, making a choice on your own is not easy.

It should be understood that there is no clear answer to the question of how best to make dental prosthetics; each type has its own goals. The financial capabilities of the patient also play a significant role.

Some types are used for complete tooth loss (implants, clasp dentures), others for partial loss (crowns, inlays), and others are designed to improve the appearance of the “facade” of the dentition (veneers).

The advice of a qualified dentist will help you make a choice in favor of the best dental prosthetics, the best for you specifically.

Almost every person has to face the problem of tooth loss in one form or another, especially in old age. The reasons for this phenomenon may be different, the main thing is that there is a solution to this problem and dental prosthetics comes to the rescue. There are different types of dentures, when visiting dentistry you can see that the range is quite wide and varied, and this is a plus, but, on the other hand, it is not easy to understand such a variety.

What types of dentures are there?

All existing types of dentures are divided into two large groups: removable and fixed, but within each of these groups there is its own division. For example, removable dentures according to their classification are divided into:

• plate - made of plastic or metal, they belong to the budget class and are accessible to almost everyone;
• clasp - a metal structure with fasteners or clasps, which are installed on the porcelain base of the prosthesis, are durable and have a long service life (can be made of plastic, which reduces their cost);
• silicone or nylon - comfortable, flexible and thin prostheses, characterized by increased accuracy, but in case of breakdown they cannot be repaired, only replacement is possible.

Completely removable dentures are installed when the patient does not have his own teeth; they are attached using special pastes or the suction method. Conditionally removable dentures are used to replace one or more lost teeth and are attached in the oral cavity to the elements adjacent to the lost ones. In dentistry, there are also immediate prostheses that perform purely temporary functions until the production of the main prosthesis is completed.

If removable dentures are most often installed in elderly patients, then fixed dentures are usually intended for younger people and their main difference lies in the material of manufacture. So, what are the types of fixed dentures:

• metal ceramics;
• ceramic inlays (the most popular option for most patients);
• metal-free ceramics;
• glass ceramics (looks great, but does not have a high level of strength).

In case of severe destruction, microprosthetics can be used, which can be used to restore the dentition, whose appearance will not differ in any way from a healthy one. You can also name a stump lining installed on a pin, crowns on teeth, bridges and implants that completely restore the condition of the tooth.

Note! For a long time, those who were missing all their teeth in their mouth had no options other than removable dentures. However, today implantation techniques are actively used, which make it possible to carry out prosthetics in just a few days with a guaranteed long-lasting result. Such treatment protocols have become more affordable and are available to more and more specialists. For example, this is, of course, higher than removable prosthetics, but the quality of workmanship is many times better: comfort, aesthetics, and functionality cannot be compared with false jaws.

Crowns

The crown is the visible part of the tooth and such an important parameter as the beauty of a person’s smile directly depends on it. They can be installed on an implant replacing the tooth root, on your jaw apparatus, either with or without depulpation, depending on the specific case.

Crowns come in several varieties:

• metal-ceramic;
• made of aluminum oxide;
• ceramic;
• metal-plastic;
• based on zirconium oxide.

The most popular option at the moment is metal-ceramic crowns. This is due to their key characteristics and advantages, namely:

• high degree of reliability;
• duration of operation;
• variability of installation in almost all prostheses, including implants;
• preserving the natural appearance of the patient's jaw.

Other crown options also have strengths and advantages, for example, ceramic ones, which are made from ceramics or porcelain and are installed on cone-shaped support elements, are distinguished by their natural appearance, stable color, lightness and the fact that they do not cause allergic reactions in the oral cavity. In addition, they do not irritate the gums, do not take a long time to get used to, and are durable.

Dental prosthetics based on zirconium oxide can easily be called an achievement of modern dentistry. These crowns are different:

• high strength;
• excellent aesthetics;
• durability of operation;
• absence of allergic effects and color stability.

Aluminum oxide crowns are produced using computer programming on special equipment, which allows them to be considered almost an ideal solution to problems with dentures. They have all the same positive qualities that were already discussed above.

Metal-plastic crowns, although they are the most affordable option, are still limited to a short period of use and can only be perceived as a temporary solution.

Purpose of implants, area of ​​application

By type, implants can be either fixed or conditionally removable prostheses; everything here will depend on their functional purpose and use. The main requirement for the materials for their manufacture is the speed and comfort of implantation into the patient’s gums; accordingly, the most favorable materials for this will be ceramics, which is also the most affordable, as well as titanium, tantalum and zirconium.

In what cases are implants used? For example, if one tooth is missing in a row, there are not enough supports for installing a bridge, the end chewing elements have been lost, or there are simply no other options for installing other dentures. In all the cases described above, a non-removable structure is installed, since a conditionally removable implant has serious disadvantages associated with the inability to ensure reliable fastening of the entire structure.

Which dentures are better?

The variety of dentures also has a downside associated with the difficulty of choosing one or another option for the patient. The concept of the “best prosthesis” can be abstract, since in this case everything is individual and universal solutions are not always justified. It is necessary to be examined by a dentist and an orthodontist; there is a very real scenario in which you will also have to visit a therapist and a surgeon, since the installation of dentures can significantly affect the entire human body.

The choice of one or another prosthesis is influenced by the following key factors:

• how many teeth the patient lost;
• how best to restore chewing function;
• how to ensure the maximum level of comfort while using the prosthesis;
• cost of the procedure.

Upon completion of the examination, a decision is made on the situation with the supporting teeth, the body is checked for allergic reactions, and the condition of the remaining teeth and mucous membrane is determined. Only after taking into account all these factors can you make a choice of dentures.

Your choice for correcting visual defects of teeth

One should not assume that there are types of prostheses that have absolutely no disadvantages; this is not true; each of them has its own strengths and weaknesses. When choosing your design, you must take into account the scale of the problem, the level of general health, the material used to make the prosthesis, and the manufacturer.

To correct purely visual defects, for example, the appearance of enamel chips or changes in its color, it is advisable to give preference to lumineers or veneers. They are similar to false nails and completely solve the problem of correcting problems with the appearance of teeth. If the enamel is characterized by increased abrasion, then it makes sense to use ceramic veneers, which are a permanent structure that is placed on a filled tooth for a fairly long period, at least 10 years.

Your choice for replacing lost teeth

In situations where one or more teeth are missing, crowns can be used. For those teeth that are adjacent to each other, bridge-like crowns are used, but if there is a lot of loss, then you will have to resort to the help of removable or conditionally removable structures.

An important role in the process of choosing a particular removable denture design is played by factors of cost and manufacturing materials, or rather, their quality. The problem is that cheap options have a steady tendency to loosen and fall out of the oral cavity; naturally, this does not happen immediately, but after a certain period of time. On the other hand, not every person will be able to wear items made of metal or plastic, and we should not forget about the danger of allergies.

When choosing prosthetics with implants, you should prepare yourself for the upcoming surgical intervention, the results of which may not be as rosy as the patient initially imagined. For example, it is impossible to guarantee that a foreign material implanted into the bone mass will definitely take root, and this is fraught with various complications. The postoperative adaptation period may be lengthy; the discomfort felt by patients is natural and not associated with the poor quality of the operation. You should wait until the body gets used to the foreign structure and subsequently it will no longer cause discomfort.

Choosing a good prosthesis is not as simple as it might seem at first glance, they say, you take the most expensive solution and get the desired result. Firstly, high-quality prosthetics are very expensive; not everyone can afford such an expensive pleasure. This issue should be approached as pragmatically and rationally as possible, focusing on the following factors:

• mandatory - the prosthesis must fully restore the previously existing functionality of the tooth;
• a reliable design and a beautiful smile are not always interconnected things; you should consider what is most important and valuable to you;
• the financial aspect is one of the most effective, since a high level of quality, and combined with aesthetics, is very expensive;
• It is also necessary to take into account the number of lost teeth; the fewer there are, the easier and usually cheaper it is to solve the problem.

Bottom line

Complete restoration of the dentition plays a vital role in terms of the overall health of the human body. The presence of all the necessary elements in the dentition makes it possible to close the jaw correctly, does not have a negative effect on diction and allows you to chew food efficiently. If you refuse to restore the row, partial displacement of the teeth or a change in their inclination may occur; in addition, the load on the remaining teeth increases, and this can provoke their premature destruction.

How much does prosthetics cost?

The pricing factor in the field of dental prosthetics is influenced by many aspects, ranging from the choice of material, type of product and scale of the problem, to the location of the clinic that performs such operations. For example, on average, the installation of clasp dentures will cost a patient an amount of 9 to 15 thousand rubles; for nylon ones, the price range ranges from 6 to 12 thousand, and a partially removable denture will cost its owner an amount of no less than three and a half thousands.