What is Fixed Prosthesis?
Fixed dentures are dentures that are attached to the teeth and cannot be removed. Prostheses are specially designed by dentists after accurate size and shape measurements are taken and placed on the patient’s teeth. These prostheses are attached to pre-prepared teeth by screwing or gluing and offer a long-term solution.
Fixed Prosthesis Types
There are many different materials and types of Fixed Dentures available. The most commonly used fixed prostheses are as follows:
- Porcelain Veneer: It is a thin porcelain veneer that covers the upper part of the tooth. It provides an appearance similar to natural teeth. It is used for tooth shaping, color change or repair of caries.
- Porcelain Veneer: It is a thin porcelain veneer that is adhered to the front surface of the tooth, like a porcelain veneer. However, since it is a thinner coating, it requires less tooth cutting by dentists.
- Metal Porcelain Veneer: It is a dental prosthesis made with porcelain veneer on a metal core. The chewing surfaces of the teeth are metal and the upper parts are porcelain.
- Full Ceramic Dentures: These are dental prostheses made entirely of ceramics. They provide the closest appearance to natural teeth and are as durable as porcelain veneers.
- Zirconium Coating: It is a dental prosthesis made of zirconium. It is durable and aesthetically successful.
Advantages of Fixed Dentures
Aesthetic Appearance: Fixed dentures provide an appearance similar to natural teeth and help correct the person’s smile. The colors and shapes of the dentures can be customized to match the person’s natural teeth.Has a Comfortable Structure: Fixed dentures provide the same level of comfort as natural teeth when applied properly. Prosthetics; They do not cause discomfort during chewing, speaking and other daily activities.They are permanent: Fixed dentures are a long-lasting solution. Like dental implants, dentures can be used for many years. In addition, if proper care is taken, the bone tissue that supports the teeth is also protected.They Do Not Lose Their Functionality: While fixed dentures eliminate problems such as missing teeth, they continue to perform chewing and other functions in the same way. This is important to continue eating and performing daily activities normally.Increases a Person’s Self-Confidence: Missing teeth or other similar problems can affect a person’s self-confidence. Fixed prostheses solve these problems and increase the person’s self-confidence. A more beautiful smile also increases a person’s self-confidence.Easy to Maintain: Fixed dentures can be easily cleaned like natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing is sufficient to maintain fixed dentures. Your dentist may also use professional tools to clean your teeth and dentures.More Economical Compared to Other Treatments: Fixed dentures are more cost-effective compared to other dental treatments. While dental implants and similar treatments can be more expensive, fixed dentures offer a more economical solution. Dental insurance policies may also cover some of the cost of fixed dentures.Fixed dentures offer a long-lasting and economical solution for missing teeth or other similar problems. In addition, it improves the aesthetic appearance by increasing the person’s self-confidence.
Disadvantages of Fixed Dentures
In addition to the advantages of fixed prostheses, they also have some disadvantages. These include:
- It May Reduce the Grinding Power of the Teeth: Fixed dentures may cause difficulty in eating by reducing the grinding power of the teeth.
- Maintenance is Difficult: Fixed dentures can be difficult to maintain due to the difficulty of cleaning, especially in the areas between the gums and the denture. It also requires special techniques, such as using a toothbrush and flossing.
- Oral Hygiene Problems: The use of fixed dentures may cause problems related to oral hygiene. Inadequate care can lead to gum diseases, cavities and bad breath.
- May Cause Weakening of Teeth: Fixed dentures can cause teeth to weaken and break. This can affect the function and durability of the teeth.
Care of Fixed Dentures
In order for fixed dentures to last long and remain healthy, appropriate care and cleaning routines must be applied.
Regular cleaning of fixed dentures prevents the accumulation of plaque and other foreign materials. Daily brushing and flossing plays an important role in maintaining fixed dentures. Brushing your teeth after meals and flossing at least twice a day will help keep your teeth and dentures clean and healthy.
During the brushing process, clean your entire mouth and teeth, including the upper and lower parts of the dentures, gums and teeth. When brushing your mouth and teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful not to strain your gums too much.
Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth. To clean the underside of fixed dentures, pass the floss under the denture and thoroughly clean the areas between the teeth.
In addition to oral hygiene, regular visits to your dentist are also important for the maintenance of fixed dentures. Your dentist can check your dentures and clean or adjust them as needed.
During the care of fixed dentures, hard brushes, harsh dental floss or toothpaste can damage tooth enamel and damage your dentures. Therefore, appropriate dental care products should be used. You can help clean and maintain your fixed dentures by using the toothbrush, dental floss and oral care products recommended by your dentist.
Finally, remember that your diet also affects the care of your dentures. Sugary foods and drinks can cause decay and damage to your teeth and dentures. To keep your teeth and dentures healthy, pay attention to your diet and consume healthy foods.
Fixed Prosthesis Application Process
The application of fixed dentures is usually a 2 to 3-stage process. The process may include the following steps:
Tooth Preparation: The first step is the preparation of the teeth. In this step, the dentist will remove some material from the teeth to prepare for the fixed denture. Preparation of the teeth is necessary for the correct fitting of the prosthesis.Mold Making: After the tooth preparation is completed, the dentist will take a mold. This mold is used to make a custom denture design that will be used to ensure the correct fit of the denture.Prosthesis Application: After the prosthesis is prepared, the dentist uses a special adhesive to apply the fixed prosthesis to the tooth. The prosthesis is carefully tested before being fitted to ensure it is fitted correctly.Cost of Fixed Dentures
The cost of fixed dentures depends on many factors. Factors such as the size of the denture, its material, the dentist’s experience, and regional pricing can affect the cost. Fixed dentures generally carry a moderate cost compared to other alternatives that can be more expensive.
Durability and Life of Fixed Dentures
Fixed dentures are generally long-lasting when properly cared for and cleaned regularly. The lifespan of the prosthesis may depend on the material used, the size of the prosthesis, the dentist’s application skill and the patient’s oral hygiene. The average lifespan of fixed dentures can range from 5 to 15 years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fixed Dentures
Is fixed prosthesis painful?
Local anesthesia is used during fixed prosthesis application and the procedure is performed painlessly.
How long does it take to make fixed dentures?
The construction time of fixed dentures may vary depending on the treatment plan and the patient’s tooth structure. It can usually be prepared and applied within 2-3 weeks.
How do fixed dentures affect our eating and drinking habits?
Fixed dentures may impose some limitations on your eating and drinking habits. For example, you may need to avoid consuming hard and sticky foods.
How to clean fixed dentures?
Cleaning of fixed dentures can be done by brushing and flossing like normal teeth cleaning. You may also need to use special cleaning materials recommended by your dentist.
How long do fixed dentures last?
The lifespan of fixed dentures depends on the frequency of use, maintenance and the patient’s dental hygiene habits. On average, they can last for 10-15 years.
How much do fixed dentures cost?
The cost of fixed prostheses may vary depending on the method of application, the materials used and the dentist’s pricing policy. It is generally considered an expensive dental treatment.
