You might wonder how artificial teeth are installed and assume it’s a simple procedure, but it’s actually more complex. Dental prosthesis placement is a lengthy process that requires a skilled and experienced dentist.
If the procedure is done properly—from consultation and examination to the final placement of the prosthetic—artificial teeth can serve as excellent replacements for natural teeth. In this article, we’ll discuss the mechanism of dental prosthesis installation in its various types and forms. So, if you're considering getting artificial teeth, it's best to be fully informed about the process. Please keep reading.
What is the Dental Prosthesis Procedure?
The dental prosthesis procedure is a treatment that involves placing artificial teeth to replace natural ones lost for various reasons. It can also serve as a restorative treatment for cracked or broken teeth and for root treatments.
Dental prostheses fall into two main categories:
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Fixed prostheses
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Removable prostheses
The choice between them depends on the patient's condition and financial capacity.
For instance, fixed prostheses are generally used when up to 3 teeth are missing. If more than 3 teeth are missing, removable prostheses are usually the better option.
Types of Dental Prostheses As mentioned earlier, there are two types: fixed and removable. Let's explore them in detail:
1. Fixed Dental Prostheses
These are prostheses that are permanently affixed in the mouth and can only be removed by a dentist. They come in several forms:
• Dental Crowns
These are caps placed over damaged teeth or molars to restore and prolong their function.
Dental Crown Procedure:
Consultation: The dentist examines your mouth and teeth to ensure they are healthy and able to receive a prosthesis. Then, you’ll discuss the type of crown best suited for your health and budget.
Preparation: The affected tooth is shaved down to make room for the crown.
**Impression Taking:
An impression is taken of the area around the prepared tooth to send to the dental lab. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent one is ready.
Placement: The crown is tested for fit and comfort. Adjustments are made as needed. Finally, the crown is permanently cemented in place with dental adhesive.
• Fixed Bridges
Used to replace one or more missing teeth, fixed bridges are permanently attached using dental adhesives. The adjacent teeth act as anchors and must be strong and healthy.
Fixed Bridge Procedure:
The process is similar to crown placement, but the dentist prepares two teeth on either side of the missing one to support the bridge.
• Dental Implants
The most advanced type of fixed prosthesis. They replace the roots of missing teeth with titanium posts that resemble screws. These posts support artificial teeth that closely resemble and function like real ones.
Dental Implant Procedure:
Consultation & Treatment Planning: A full dental exam, review of medical history, and customized treatment plan.
Anesthesia: Options include local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the case.
Jawbone Preparation: If there isn’t enough bone, a bone graft may be necessary.
Implant Placement: A small hole is drilled in the jawbone, and the titanium post is inserted. The area is left to heal and integrate with the bone for 3–5 months.
Abutment Placement: Once healed, a minor surgery exposes the implant and places an abutment that will support the final prosthesis.
Final Prosthesis: An impression is taken, and the dental lab fabricates a crown, bridge, or denture. This is then permanently attached to the abutment.
2. Removable Dental Prostheses
These are prostheses that the patient can remove and reinsert at will. They typically consist of a metal base with an acrylic gum-colored overlay. One of their key advantages is the ability to replace multiple or all teeth in one or both jaws simultaneously.
They rely on suction and bone support for stability and require special care.
Types of removable prostheses include:
• Partial Dentures
Made from acrylic, partial dentures replace several missing teeth. Your dentist designs them based on your needs and sends the specifications to the dental lab. They use remaining natural teeth for support and allow for thermal conductivity.
• Complete Dentures
Designed to replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw—or both. They also help prevent bone loss in the jaws over time.
Removable Denture Procedure:
The dentist takes impressions of your jaw and measures the relationship between your upper and lower jaws.
Wax models and plastic patterns are made for you to try in your mouth. These are used to evaluate fit, color, and bite.
The final dentures are fabricated and fitted.
Adjustments are made as needed to ensure comfort and functionality.
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