September 20, 2023
Dental prostheses – types, indications, prices
Nowadays, more and more people are considering various dental treatment options in order to maintain their basic masticatory functions and a beautiful smile. One of the most impressive solutions in this context is the very popular dental prosthesis. What types of dental prostheses can be distinguished? What are the indications for wearing them? We answer these and other questions in the following article. Read on and find out!
Dental prostheses – what is worth knowing?
Dental prostheses are medical devices used to replace missing teeth and improve chewing function and facial aesthetics. The use of prostheses aims to restore normal oral function and aesthetics. Depending on the patient’s individual needs and condition, different prosthesis types can be used: removable or fixed.
Why are dental prostheses needed?
The use of dental prostheses has a number of significant implications for the patient’s health as well as life quality. First and foremost, missing or damaged teeth can lead to many functional and health problems. Incorrect bite, chewing difficulties and even articulation disorders are just some of them. The aesthetic aspect cannot be overlooked either: missing teeth often affect self-confidence and mood, reducing social comfort.
Oral health is undoubtedly linked to the overall health of the body. For example, chewing problems can affect the process of digestion and absorption of nutrients. Abnormal bite can also lead to adverse changes in the musculoskeletal system, such as neck pain or problematic muscle tension. Therefore, dental prostheses, by restoring normal oral anatomy and function, can help to avoid these negative consequences.
Types of prostheses
Dental prostheses are diverse, both in terms of their design and the materials from which they are made. They can be divided into two main categories: removable prostheses and fixed prostheses.
Removable prostheses
1. Full prosthesis
This solution is used when the patient does not have any teeth in the respective dental arch. Full prostheses are usually made of acrylic and cover the entire surface of the gum and palate. They are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing, and their main advantage is the ability to restore aesthetics and oral function.
2. Partial prosthesis
If one or more teeth are missing, partial prosthesis can be used. They can be made of different materials, such as metal or plastic. They are usually attached to the other teeth with abutments. Partial dentures make chewing and speaking easier and prevent movement of the remaining teeth.
Fixed prostheses
1. Crowns
Crowns are a type of fixed prosthesis that replace the outer part of a tooth. They are used in cases where the tooth is so damaged that it cannot be restored with a filling, but the tooth root is still healthy. Crowns can be made of different materials, such as ceramic, metal or composites.
2. Bridges
Bridges are another fixed prosthetic solution which allows for the replacement of one or more missing teeth. Bridges are usually attached to adjacent teeth and they are made of materials similar to those used in crowns. With bridges, the patient can avoid problems related to tooth displacement and incorrect bite.
Prices of dental prostheses
The prices of prostheses can vary depending on the materials used or where they will be fitted. At Roxdental Dentist Acton prices range from £450 to roughly £1,200. Within this range, patients can opt for, among other things, composite prosthesis, full and partial acrylic prosthesis, crowns on zirconia and metal substructure, or frame prosthesis, which is a partial prosthesis.
Summary
Dental prostheses are a key element of modern stomatology, making it possible to restore oral function and aesthetics. Choosing the right type of prosthesis is a complex process that depends on the patient’s individual needs, condition and financial capacity. The are various possibilities: ranging from removable prostheses, such as full and partial prostheses, to fixed prostheses in the form of crowns and bridges. The prices of prostheses also vary; at Roxdental Dentist Acton they range from £450 to £1,200.