Fixed dentures
What is worth knowing about fixed dentures?
Dentures are a tooth replacement method that provides an effective solution for patients who are missing a significant part of their teeth, or in some cases, all of their teeth. The goal of dental prostheses is to completely restore the aesthetic and chewing function.
With fixed dentures, the full circular bridge or partial dental bridge is attached to the implants. Therefore, it is completely stable and does not need to be glued. This makes it more comfortable and ensures it does not fall out of the mouth. Additionally, biting and chewing feel more natural with fixed dentures due to their stability. With fixed-removable dentures, implants ensure the stability of the prosthesis, but the dentures are removable, making them easy to clean. In this dental replacement, a “pier” (metal bridge) or locators (small metal balls) are placed on the implant. These snap into the place created for them in the prosthesis and hold the denture in place.
Fixed, removable dentures anchored to dental implants
A removable denture is a set of teeth anchored to a dental implant. This is a more cost-effective alternative compared to dental bridges fixed to the implant. It is also recommended in cases where it is not possible to replace each tooth individually with dental implants due to certain health reasons.
Fixed dentures are firmly and stably connected to the dental implant, making them much safer and more comfortable than non-fixed dentures. They are also smaller than a traditional prosthesis, making them much easier to wear and use in everyday life.
Why are dentures attached to dental implants recommended?
With a prosthesis attached to a Premium Straumann, Nobel Active, or Alpha Bio implant, the original strength and quality of chewing can be restored. The need for denture adhesive is eliminated. In addition to supporting healthy digestion, it provides a natural appearance, and there will be no issues with speaking.
Fixed dentures do not irritate the gums, making them much more comfortable to wear.
Dental implants can prevent premature aging of facial lines as they minimize bone loss. Therefore, dental implants are long-lasting, stable dental replacement solutions.
What types of fixed, removable dentures are there?
There are numerous tooth replacement methods, and we can offer you the right solution at our clinic. Depending on health conditions, even 2 dental implants might suffice to secure the denture for the lower jaw. For the upper jaw, 4 or 6 artificial tooth roots are recommended.
The denture can be connected to the implants in several ways. One method is the so-called jetty, which is a metal bridge. Another is the locator attachment. In this method, the dentist attaches small balls to the top of the implants. These snap into the place created for them in the prosthesis, securing the denture in place.
Bracket denture on 4 implants
Sphere retention, removable dentures with locator on 2 or 4 implants
Dental Replacement - Treatment Process
The process of placing dentures fixed on dental implants can be divided into two main stages.
- First Stage
During the initial steps of the treatment, the dentist, if necessary, extracts the teeth and then places the dental implants. The healing time for the area around the implants is approximately 4-6 months. During this period, the tooth roots integrate into the bone.
- Second Stage
After the healing period, the so-called medical screws are placed. Following this, an impression of the jaw bone is taken, and the bite height is adjusted. A test with the teeth placed in wax is conducted. Finally, based on all this information, the dental technician prepares the dentures. The cosmetic dentist then fits them and provides guidance on maintaining the dentures and oral hygiene.
Am I eligible to have fixed dentures?
All individuals with good oral hygiene are considered suitable for this procedure. However, before starting this treatment, it is advisable to assess the patient’s general health and daily habits.
The treatment requires an adequate amount and density of jaw bone stock. This can be verified with an X-ray, CT, or Premium CBCT. Based on the diagnosis, the dentist can determine whether the bone is sufficient or if bone replacement is necessary.
However, there are situations where dental implants might be contraindicated, such as in cases of periodontitis, heavy smoking, or teeth grinding. It is essential to address these issues with appropriate treatment. Smoking should be ceased before and after the procedure.
What should I do, what should I pay attention to after placing the dentures?
Dentures attached to dental implants are designed to be worn 24 hours a day. However, they must also be removed regularly for cleaning. Maintaining clean and healthy gums is crucial for the stability and longevity of the implants.
Therefore, it is recommended to clean the dentures daily. During cleaning, wash the prosthesis and the area around the implants. Remove plaque from the superstructure placed on the dental implant using dental floss, use mouthwash, and rinse the dentures.
Removable dentures
What is a denture and in what cases is it recommended?
Dentures are an affordable tooth replacement method for our patients who are missing all their teeth. If you have your own teeth, but they are not in the right number and position, partial dentures are recommended.
The goal of both full and partial prostheses is to restore the chewing function and the aesthetic effect. Proper chewing is a basic condition for healthy digestion, in the absence of which digestive problems can occur, which can lead to further illness.
Aesthetics is part of our everyday life, without a confident appearance, our self-confidence can decrease significantly. However, a set of dentures made according to our abilities can restore our confidence and even make us look years younger.
Non-fixed, removable dentures
Non-fixed, removable dentures are a traditional solution to replace partial or complete missing teeth. In the case of both prostheses, the teeth are made of plastic. Porcelain teeth cannot be placed in the dentures, as they would pull the dentures out of place due to their weight.
Full plate dentures
Removable dentures must be attached to the gums with a special adhesive. This dental prosthesis is less stable, but it is easier to clean and the price is more favorable.
Non-fixed dentures are not very comfortable to wear, as they can move very easily, which can cause discomfort while eating and speaking. In addition, the phenomenon of atrophy of the jaw bone can also be experienced over time.
This is a consequence of the fact that there are no tooth roots in the bone, which stimulate the pressure of chewing into the bone, thus preventing bone loss. Over time, this bone loss can lead to changes in the shape of the face and displacement of the teeth.
Types of partial plate dentures
In the case of partial dentures, the removable element can be connected to your intact teeth, crowns, and bridges in several ways:
- clip-on (clip-anchored)
- telescopic (anchored on the telescopic crown)
- fine mechanical (hidden anchorage)
The disadvantage of the metal clip is that it is not the best solution from an aesthetic point of view. Since in the case of hidden anchorage, the bridge and the removable denture are made together (combined work), it offers a much better aesthetic solution than the metal clasp, and the denture sits stably in the mouth.
