Dental Prosthetics: Making the Right Choice

When teeth are lost, or old dental prosthetics need replacing, an important decision about a new restoration is due. When choosing a restoration method, dental prosthetics can generally be divided into two types: fixed and removable. A prosthesis is called "fixed" when it is cemented onto remaining teeth or onto implants. This type of restoration comes closest to the natural dentition and therefore offers the highest comfort. The all-ceramic material used is, visually, barely distinguishable from natural teeth — even by a dentist. Chewing, tasting, and speaking also come much more naturally, and quality of life is noticeably higher. In our practice, fixed dental prosthetics are considered the treatment of choice — even for older patients — and should be preferred wherever possible. A prosthesis is called "removable" when it is attached to the remaining teeth using clasps, precision attachments, or telescopic crowns. It consists mainly of acrylic and must be taken out of the mouth several times a day for cleaning. By design, it is considerably bulkier than the "fixed" option and covers all or part of the palate. This leads to reduced comfort and a longer adjustment period. Taste and speech can also be affected in some cases. Further disadvantages include increased plaque formation on the remaining teeth, which can cause damage, and increased mechanical strain on the gums and oral mucosa, which can lead to pressure sores or irritation fibromas. On the plus side, however, are its adaptability, lower cost, and repairability — particularly important where the prognosis for some remaining teeth is uncertain. Our technical team can also influence the design so that the disadvantages mentioned above, particularly in terms of bulk and palate coverage, are reduced. The different options come with their own requirements as well as the advantages and disadvantages described above. The decision should therefore depend on the following factors: - your motivation for dental treatment and aftercare (regular check-ups and professional cleanings) - oral hygiene - your ability to adapt to dental prosthetics - the state of your dentition (number/location of missing teeth, level of decay activity, and periodontitis) - the condition of the oral mucosa The factors described must first be assessed by us as part of a dental check-up and consultation appointment. Among other things, an X-ray of the dentition is usually also needed, to examine the condition of both the tooth-supporting structures (periodontium) and the jawbone. Prognostic factors, such as the future extendability of the prosthesis, also play an important role — meaning that if further teeth are lost later, the dental technician can rework the prosthesis and adapt it to the new dental situation. The latter is especially important for teeth with an uncertain prognosis (significant loss of substance from decay, or a high degree of looseness). Let us advise you, with no obligation, and benefit from our expertise! We look forward to seeing you, Your Dr. Ingmar L. Kappel, MSc.