Prosthodontics: Dentures, Dental Crowns, Bridges, Inlays and Onlays
Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with missing or damaged teeth, jaw structures, and associated oral tissues. The goal of prosthodontics is to restore the function, esthetics, and health of the oral and maxillofacial structures using various prosthodontic appliances, including dentures, dental crowns, bridges, inlays, and onlays.
Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. They are made of acrylic resin, metal, or a combination of both materials. Dentures are designed to fit snugly on the gums, and they can be removed for cleaning and maintenance. Dentures can be complete or partial, depending on the extent of tooth loss. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some teeth are missing.
Dental crowns are prosthetic devices that cover a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. Dental crowns are made of ceramic, metal, or a combination of both materials. They are custom-made to fit over the tooth, and they are cemented in place. Dental crowns are used to treat teeth that are broken, chipped, severely decayed, or discolored.
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth by anchoring them to adjacent teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges are made of ceramic, metal, or a combination of both materials. They are custom-made to fit over the remaining teeth and are cemented in place. Dental bridges are used to fill gaps caused by missing teeth, which can improve the patient’s ability to eat, speak, and smile.
Inlays and onlays are indirect dental restorations that are used to repair teeth that are damaged by decay or trauma. Inlays and onlays are made of ceramic or composite resin materials, and they are custom-made to fit into the cavity or on the surface of the tooth. Inlays are used when the damage is confined to the center of the tooth, while onlays are used when the damage extends to the biting surface of the tooth.
While prosthodontic appliances are important for restoring the function and esthetics of the oral and maxillofacial structures, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of seeking professional help rather than attempting to do it oneself. This is because prosthodontics involves complex procedures that require a high level of skill, knowledge, and experience. Attempting to do it oneself can lead to a variety of problems, including incorrect fitting, improper alignment, and damage to the surrounding teeth and tissues. Learn more.
Furthermore, professional dentists have access to advanced technology and materials that are not available to the general public. They are trained to use these materials and technologies to create prosthodontic appliances that are customized to the patient’s unique needs and preferences. Professional dentists also have the expertise to diagnose and treat any underlying dental or oral health problems that may be contributing to the patient’s missing or damaged teeth.
In addition, seeking professional help ensures that the patient receives appropriate follow-up care and maintenance. This includes regular check-ups, cleanings, and adjustments to the prosthodontic appliances. Professional dentists can also provide education and guidance on how to properly care for prosthodontic appliances at home, which can prolong their lifespan and improve their performance.
In conclusion, prosthodontics is a crucial aspect of modern dentistry that offers a variety of solutions for restoring missing or damaged teeth and associated oral structures. Dentures, dental crowns, bridges, inlays, and onlays are among the most common prosthodontic appliances used in practice. However, it is important to seek professional help when considering prosthodontic treatment, as attempting to do it. Next article.
