What are Removable Dentures?
Removable dentures, commonly known as false teeth, are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. These prostheses are custom-made to fit comfortably against the gums, restoring functionality and aesthetics to the mouth. Whether you are missing a few teeth or need a full set, removable dentures offer a versatile solution to improve your oral health and quality of life.
Removable dentures, commonly known as false teeth, are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. These prostheses are custom-made to fit comfortably against the gums, restoring functionality and aesthetics to the mouth. Whether you are missing a few teeth or need a full set, removable dentures offer a versatile solution to improve your oral health and quality of life.
How Is a Removable Dental Prosthesis Placed?
The process of placing a removable dental prosthesis involves several key steps, which we outline below:
1) Initial Evaluation: Our dentist conducts a thorough examination of your mouth, including teeth, gums, and bone structure. This may involve X-rays and photographs to determine if a removable prosthesis is the best option for you.
2) Custom Design: Detailed impressions of your mouth are taken to design a prosthesis that fits your needs. The specialist will consider factors such as your oral health, remaining teeth, and bite alignment.
3) Laboratory Fabrication: Using the measurements, the information is sent to a specialized lab to craft your removable prosthesis according to the dentist’s specifications.
4) Placement and Adjustment: Once ready, the prosthesis is fitted in your mouth to ensure proper alignment and comfort. You’ll also receive instructions on how to use, clean, and store it correctly.
5) Follow-Up and Checkups: Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor adaptation, make adjustments if needed, and maintain both your oral health and the prosthesis’s condition.
Pros and Cons of Removable Dentures
Advantages:
✔ Affordable: More cost-effective than fixed options like implants.
✔ Minimally Invasive: Ideal for patients who cannot undergo surgery.
✔ Durable: With proper care, they can last for many years.
Things to Consider:
✖ Aesthetics: Less natural-looking compared to fixed alternatives.
✖ Functionality: Chewing strength is lower than with natural teeth or implants.
✖ Initial Fit: May require an adjustment period and occasional adhesives for stability.
✖ Maintenance: Require daily cleaning and periodic checkups for adjustments or replacements.
✖ Fragility: Since they’re removable, mishandling during cleaning or storage can lead to damage or loss.
At our dental clinic in Panama City, we’ll guide you in choosing the best solution for your needs.
Schedule an appointment and restore your smile with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Prosthetics in Panama
Removable dentures are suitable for people who have lost one or more teeth due to various reasons, such as cavities, injuries, or gum disease. They are also an excellent option for those who are not suitable candidates for dental implants or fixed dentures due to bone loss or other oral health issues. At Dental One, our experienced team evaluates each patient’s oral health and discusses their goals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, including the use of removable dentures.
Removable dentures can be used for any number of missing teeth in the upper and lower jaw.
Missing teeth cause the following aggravations:
-Digestion worsens, as it is impossible to chew food properly;
-Arch displacement: due to an empty cavity, neighboring teeth shift;
-Bite alteration;
– Atrophy of the jawbone: the tissue is losing volume;
– Deformation of the dental arch.
– Removable dentures prevent the facial contour changes resulting from total or partial edentulism. Placing an orthopedic structure will preserve diction, the ability to eat properly, and smile without discomfort.
This condition is further aggravated when teeth are missing for a long time, as it causes concomitant periodontal disease.
The dentist selects the specific type of structure based on the defects and the patient’s condition.
There are different types of removable denture attachments in Costa del Este:
Fully removable denture: attached to the gum.
Partial denture: attached to the abutment teeth, if present.
A conditionally removable denture: more secure attachment, more comfortable for the patient. An implant must be inserted, which will act as support for a bridge or crown. Only a doctor can remove it as a prophylaxis.
Fully removable laminar dentures
A system that mimics gum tissue is attached to the palate, partially overlapping it. A special type of cement is sometimes used. It can be securely attached to the upper jaw because chewing pressure is reduced. If all the teeth in the lower jaw are missing, all-on-four implants are recommended. A prosthesis is placed on artificial roots, and the structure can only be removed in a dental office.
A removable nylon denture does not damage the gums and is comfortable for the patient to wear.
Partial dentures
This structure is used to eliminate defects if implants are contraindicated. It is attached to neighboring crowns with special clips called clamshells. It is most commonly used when posterior teeth are missing. The structure is made of nylon or plastic. Filing of the teeth may be necessary.
Butterfly
This is similar to a crown and may be necessary to restore a missing tooth. It can be a temporary solution prior to implant placement (not recommended) or a permanent one if implant surgery is contraindicated. The denture is secured with special wings. No presentation is required.
Denture
This removable prosthesis doesn’t take long to get used to and can help eliminate discomfort. Its advantage is that it is secured with a metal archwire instead of overlapping the palate of the upper jaw. The only requirement is having natural supporting teeth on which to attach the archwire. The framework will evenly distribute pressure on the jaw.
The strength and cost of upper and lower dentures depend on the construction material used:
Acrylic: elastic, good at mimicking gums, prone to wear over time. Comfortable to wear.
Nylon: soft, scratches easily, prone to color change and shrinkage.
Ceramic: mimics natural shades, not very strong.
Composites: Polymer composites containing silicon oxide, porcelain flour, glass, and quartz.
Zirconium dioxide: High precision, fully biocompatible, chip-resistant. Difficult to differentiate from natural teeth.
Metal ceramic: Strong and wear-resistant substructure.
Metal: Virtually non-deformable, long-lasting, durable but unsightly.
Before choosing a material, the doctor evaluates the aesthetic requirements and the lifespan of the structure.
While removable dentures are designed to be durable, they may need to be replaced over time due to wear or changes in your oral health. Here are some signs that it may be time to consider replacing your dentures:
Poor fit: If your dentures become loose or uncomfortable, it may be a sign that they no longer fit properly and need to be replaced.
Visible wear: Over time, dentures may show signs of wear, such as chips, cracks, or stains, which can affect both aesthetics and functionality.
Changes in oral health: Significant changes in your oral health, such as bone loss or gum recession, may require adjustments or replacement of your dentures.
At Dental One, we are committed to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile you can show off with pride. If you have any questions about removable dentures in Costa del Este or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your smile is our priority and we look forward to serving you at Dental One in Costa del Este, Panama.
