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Unfortunately, not everyone can preserve their natural teeth into old age. Especially not the elderly, who unfortunately could not enjoy today’s modern dentistry techniques in earlier years.
Due to the dentures worn on the oral mucosa, we are able to restore the aesthetics and function of natural teeth to such an extent that one’s lifestyle suffers no significant changes.
Some of the leading causes may be:
– severe periodontal diseases;
– extreme neglect of one’s personal oral hygiene over a long period of time;
– premature tooth loss;
– multiple severe dental caries;
– outdated past dental procedures;
– pre-existing edentulism (toothlessness).
Edentulism can usually be prevented due to the possibilities offered by modern dentistry, through prophylaxis, adequate nutrition and the associated dental care.
After an extensive and comprehensive oral examination of the existing situation and concerns, an accurate impression of the existing jaw relation and soft tissue surface is taken. A so-called duplicate cast of the oral situation is thus acquired. A jaw relation record registers the maxillo-mandibular relationships during eating, speaking and swallowing, in order to guarantee a stable position of the denture when these functions are being performed. A three-dimensional record is obtained with the help of record bases and occlusion rims, by means of which jaw movements and the jaw relation can be precisely simulated. It therefore becomes possible to determine the oral situation relatively well and simulate the movements. The next step is the arrangement of teeth.
The optimal relationship between the upper and lower jaw must be established by taking aesthetic considerations into account, such as the facial profile, the smile, as well as the eye line or the lip support. Optimal results can only be attained through a sustained collaboration with the patient and an appropriate placement trial. The trial denture model is then converted into a base made of gum-colored plastic that artificial teeth will be attached to. The removable complete dentures are held in place due to their close fit with the underlying jaw ridge covered with oral mucosa. Saliva and the contour of the denture base act similar to two glass plates that have a drop of water in between, a good vacuum effect and a suction effect being enough to hold them together.
Not only can the aesthetic characteristics and function of mastication be restored, but also the temporomandibular joint will be relieved, and youthfulness and freshness restored to the face.
Usually, no risks arise when fully replacing teeth with completely removable dentures. Pressure spots and slight changes in the bite position are to be expected in this case.
An ideal result offers the possibility of eating almost all foods as one used to. An elaborately produced denture will ensure aesthetic rehabilitation, however, the individual situation and anatomy significantly impact its functionality. As a rule, it is very difficult to achieve a firm hold in the case of a mandibular complete denture. Sometimes it may be necessary to use additional adhesive creams.
Implant-supported dentures represent an alternative. An implant-supported denture can be designed as a fixed denture (with crowns and bridges attached to implants) that gives the feeling of natural teeth.
To ensure a firm hold, at least 8 implants are usually needed in the upper jaw and 6 implants in the lower jaw. In some cases, fixed dentures can also be supported by only 4 implants. Implants may also be used to give a removable denture a more secure hold. In this case, at least 2 (optimally 4) implants are needed in the lower jaw and 4 in the upper jaw. This allows for a more delicate, palate-free denture that improves one’s ability to taste.
Every three years, the complete dentures should be adapted to the constantly changing oral mucosa. This is achieved through a denture reline procedure. After the impression is taken, the denture usually has to go to the dental laboratory for one day.
We would be happy to take care of your oral health.
