What are the Types of Mobile Prostheses?
Dentures that can be put on and taken off at any time to replace missing teeth are called removable dentures. Thanks to removable dental prostheses, it is possible to restore missing teeth without the need for cutting or modifying the remaining natural teeth. When evaluating treatment options such as bridges or implants for missing teeth or complete tooth loss, removable dentures are among the most commonly used types of dental prosthetics.
Removable dentures are a widely used treatment method for missing teeth. These prostheses, designed to replace lost teeth, are supported by the hard and soft tissues in the mouth. Compared to fixed dental prostheses, they offer a more affordable solution.
Types of Removable Dentures
Removable dentures are classified into two main groups:
- Partial Dentures
- Complete Dentures
These prostheses are made using gum-colored plastic resin, with artificial teeth placed on top. They are designed to sit on the alveolar ridge, which helps them stay in place by attaching to the remaining natural teeth.
The Fit of These Dentures Is Essential
Since dentures affect essential oral functions, such as:
ensuring a proper fit is crucial for patient comfort.
Patients can easily remove and wear these prostheses, and their design varies depending on the number of missing teeth, their location, and the materials used. There are five different types of removable dentures, each suited for specific needs.
Types of Removable Dentures:
- Partial Dentures: These are the most suitable prostheses for individuals who still have some of their natural teeth. Partial dentures are made from either acrylic or metal frameworks. Since they attach to the natural teeth, they may not always provide the most aesthetic appearance, making them a less preferred option.
- Complete Dentures: Among removable dental prostheses, complete dentures are primarily used for adults who have lost all their teeth. These dentures are designed to be supported by the upper and lower jawbone and function as artificial teeth. Commonly known as false teeth, complete dentures provide convenience as they can be removed and reattached as needed. However, since they are generally made of plastic, they may undergo color changes over time.
- Precision-Attachment Dentures: These dentures are preferred for individuals with multiple missing teeth. Unlike conventional partial dentures, they do not use visible metal clasps for retention. Instead, they attach to hidden attachments inside porcelain crowns, ensuring a more aesthetic appearance.
- Overdentures: These are designed to fit over a few remaining natural teeth or tooth roots in the mouth, utilizing them for added stability and support.
- Immediate Dentures: These prostheses are used when all remaining natural teeth must be extracted. Immediate dentures are placed right after tooth extraction, ensuring that the patient does not experience a toothless period. They serve as temporary healing prostheses until the tissues adapt, after which permanent dentures are custom-made for long-term use.
What Are the Advantages of Removable Dentures?