Dental Prosthetics

A removable prosthesis replaces one or more missing teeth and can be taken out and put back by the patient whenever they wish. The replacement teeth sit on a base shaped to the mouth.

Types

There are several kinds of removable prosthesis, chosen according to how many teeth are missing, where they are, and the condition of the remaining teeth and gums. Some rest on the gums alone; others are supported by clasps on the remaining teeth.

How they are made

Impressions are taken of the mouth and the prosthesis is made to those measurements. It is then tried in and adjusted until it sits comfortably and the bite meets correctly.

Getting used to a new prosthesis

Speech and eating feel unfamiliar for the first days. This settles as the tongue and cheeks adapt. Sore spots in the early period are normal and are relieved by small adjustments — they are not a reason to stop wearing it.

Care

A prosthesis is cleaned every day, outside the mouth, and is kept in water when not worn so it does not dry out and warp. The gums underneath need a rest period and regular check-ups, because the jaw changes shape slowly over the years and the fit changes with it.

Which type suits your mouth is decided after an examination.