fixed dental prosthesis
A fixed dental prosthesis is a device that copies the anatomy of a person's teeth, to replace it for functional and aesthetic purposes.
What is a fixed dental prosthesis?
The fixed dental prosthesis is a completely personalized device for the mouth of each patient, with the aim of replacing the teeth that have been lost and restoring a correct distribution of the teeth.
Its manufacture is the result of joint work between the dentist and a dental technician, who are responsible for restoring the functionality of chewing and oral aesthetics.
The fixed dental prosthesis is placed on the patient's natural teeth or on dental implants in case the natural teeth are damaged. As they remain completely fixed, it is not necessary for the patient to go through an adaptation period and it is not necessary to remove them for cleaning.
How is the procedure for fixed dental prosthesis?
To begin the procedure for the placement of a fixed dental prosthesis, it is extremely important that the patient is informed about the stages and time of treatment to be submitted.
The first step is to seek help from a professional with experience in the area of implantology. After going to the consultation, some imaging studies are generally requested to know the state of the mouth, tissues, teeth and bone.
In particular, these studies help the oral health specialist to know if there is enough space and bone to fit the fixed dental prosthesis.
Then it goes to the stage of surgical intervention, where the dental implants are placed. This intervention lasts approximately 30 minutes from the moment the anesthesia is applied.
Once the surgical phase is completed, the osseointegration stage begins, which is the time that must be waited to achieve the union of the bone with the implant (3 to 4 months).
After the osseointegration time has elapsed, the patient returns to the specialist and this will give way to a second surgical intervention that consists of making small cuts in the gums to screw the implant.
Next, the measurements are taken to make the fixed prosthesis or dental crown. From these we proceed with the preparation and subsequent placement of the final prosthesis; which implies an approximate time of 20 days to a month.
During the placement of the fixed dental prosthesis, several fit tests must be carried out to ensure that the connection with the implant is adequate. Harmony with the rest of the teeth is observed and an appointment is set in a period of 2 months to evaluate the evolution of the patient.
Last but not least, annual reviews are scheduled to check that everything is in good condition. These reviews include maintenance and care of the implant.
Despite all this, fixed dental prostheses are also used without dental implants, and are called crowns or caps. Their placement does not require any surgical intervention, since they only consist of lowering and carving the natural dental piece in shape / size for its greater adherence. They are widely used since they give a quite aesthetic result.
When is a fixed dental prosthesis necessary?
The fixed dental prosthesis is recommended in patients who have lost their natural teeth, and who have seen their speech process, chewing and the aesthetics of their smile affected.
Thanks to the use of fixed dental prostheses, the patient not only manages to recover the functionality of his mouth; it also helps you gain confidence and self-esteem again.
Fixed dental prosthesis is a widely used resource in adult patients. On the contrary, its use is contraindicated among young people between the ages of 18 and 21 who have not yet completed their dental development.
However, the judgment of a specialist should always prevail before considering the placement of a dental prosthesis or other type of fixed treatment.
Fixed dental prosthesis treatment price
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What are fixed dental prostheses?
In the case of fixed dental prostheses, there are several types; which are classified according to their method of fastening:
dental crowns
Dental crowns (also known as covers) are pieces designed to improve the functionality and appearance of those dental pieces whose enamel has deteriorated over time.
There are different types of dental crowns, which are made with various materials, including: zirconium, composite and ceramic.
Dental veneers
Although they are very similar to crowns in terms of materials and use, they are placed only on the external face of the dental piece.
Its main objective is to improve the visual aspect of the teeth and optimize the bite capacity; its use being primarily aesthetic.
dental bridges
These are used to replace the absence of dental pieces, made up of 3 or more components; carrying two of these for fastening on the patient's natural teeth.
They are manufactured on a metallic or porcelain structure and are fixed to the internal face of the teeth. They can also incorporate fixed crowns and false teeth.
Crowns fixed to implants
They are applied when only one dental piece or several non-continuous ones have been lost. It consists of the surgical insertion of one implant or more in the gum, where a crown is finally placed through an abutment.
Implant Attached Partial Denture
It is used to give better stability to artificial crowns in large spaces in the gum, due to the loss of natural teeth. Its use is similar to that of traditional bridges, except that in these cases there are more fastening elements at its ends.
Implant-attached total prosthesis
This is recommended for patients who need a total rehabilitation, since they suffer from edentulism (complete tooth loss).
In these cases, a piece is designed that simulates or imitates the shape and arrangement of the patient's natural teeth. This type of prosthesis is fixed to various points of dental implants to obtain more realistic results.
Benefits of fixed dental prosthesis
The fixed dental prosthesis has several benefits and advantages for the patient. Among the benefits offered by the fixed prosthesis we have the following:
Comfort
The fixed dental prosthesis does not need to be removed for cleaning and neither at bedtime; providing greater freedom and comfort to the patient.
Naturalness
The fixed dental prosthesis is designed with color, size and shape very similar to that of natural teeth; That is why, when using a well-made fixed dental prosthesis, the change will not be noticeable.
Durability
These devices are designed to ensure a longer useful life, compared to traditional dentures.
better support
This type of fixed dental prosthesis offers greater stability, confidence and safety to the patient, because it does not move while talking or chewing any food.
Prevents bone resorption
When a fixed dental prosthesis is placed on dental implants, it helps prevent and stop bone loss, an action that occurs over time after losing a tooth.
This occurs because the bone does not fulfill the function of supporting the tooth and atrophies.
Less regular visits
The fixed dental prosthesis does not need so many frequent corrective measures by the oral health specialist; allowing significant time and money savings for the patient.
Fixed dental prosthesis – Before and after
Fixed dental prosthesis treatment price
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