Dental prostheses
When several teeth are missing, there are several solutions. After an examination, the dentist presents the ones that suit your mouth, with their advantages and their limits.
The main types of prosthesis
| How it works | Good to know | |
|---|---|---|
| Removable denture | It comes out for cleaning; partial (a few teeth) or complete (the whole arch). | A period of adjustment is usual; small adjustments are sometimes needed. |
| Bridge | A fixed prosthesis that rests on the neighbouring teeth. | The supporting teeth are prepared. |
| Prosthesis on implants | Implants support a fixed prosthesis or stabilise a removable denture. | It requires enough bone and a preliminary assessment. |
Who is it for?
- Several missing teeth, which make chewing, speaking or smiling difficult.
- An arch with no teeth, or remaining teeth too damaged to be kept.
- An old denture that is worn, broken or no longer stays in place.
What you can expect
Having teeth again to chew and smile with, with a solution suited to your mouth and your expectations. A removable denture takes some getting used to: speaking and eating may feel unusual in the first few weeks, then become more natural.
Prostheses are made by a dental laboratory, from the impressions and trials carried out at the practice.
The steps
- Examination. The condition of the remaining teeth, the gums and the bone, with X-rays if needed.
- Care beforehand. The teeth being kept and the gums are treated before the prosthesis.
- Choosing the solution. Advantages, limits and a written estimate for each possible option.
- Impressions and trials. The prosthesis is prepared, then tried in before it is finished.
- Fitting and adjustments. Adjustments for comfort and chewing, then check-ups.
The number of sessions varies with the chosen solution; it is set out in the treatment plan.
Limits and precautions
- A removable denture can rub at first; adjustments usually resolve the discomfort.
- The jawbone changes over time: a removable denture may need to be relined or remade.
- The supporting teeth must stay healthy: their hygiene is essential.
- A prosthesis on implants requires surgery, with its own risks and a healing period.
Care and follow-up
- Clean the prosthesis every day, as well as your remaining teeth and gums.
- Take a removable denture out at night if the dentist advises it.
- See the dentist if the denture hurts, feels unstable or causes pain.
- The mouth changes over time: regular check-ups make it possible to adapt the prosthesis.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get used to a removable denture?
It varies from person to person, generally from a few days to a few weeks. Adjustments at the practice help you find comfort.
Can a denture that moves be stabilised?
Often, yes: relining or implants can improve how it holds. The examination shows what is possible.
Fixed or removable prosthesis: which should I choose?
It depends on the number of missing teeth, the condition of the remaining teeth and the bone. The dentist presents the possible options with their estimates.
A clinical consultation is needed to determine whether this treatment is right for you.