Prosthetic Dental Treatments

A Permanent and Comfortable Solution for Missing Teeth: Fixed Dental Prostheses Fixed prostheses are artificial teeth made to replace those lost for various reasons. They are permanently attached in the mouth and cannot be removed by the patient. While eliminating aesthetic concerns, they also restore chewing and speaking functions and support dental alignment, making them one of the most preferred modern treatment options. Tooth loss affects more than just appearance — it can also lead to functional and psychological issues. Fixed prostheses address these deficiencies, offering an experience that closely resembles natural teeth. Types of Fixed Prostheses Crown: A cap placed over a tooth that has been reshaped due to decay, fracture, or aesthetic problems. It can be made from porcelain, zirconium, or metal-supported materials. Bridge: A fixed prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring onto adjacent healthy teeth. The empty space is filled with artificial teeth. Implant-Supported Fixed Prostheses: These are prosthetic teeth placed on dental implants that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. They are the most comfortable and long-lasting type of fixed prosthesis. Laminate Veneers (Porcelain Laminates): Thin, aesthetic porcelain shells used primarily on front teeth for smile design purposes. When Are Fixed Prostheses Used? In cases of single or multiple tooth loss When aesthetic appearance is compromised For broken, worn, or decayed teeth When chewing or speaking functions are reduced due to missing teeth To prevent shifting of adjacent teeth When planning implant-supported restorations Advantages of Fixed Prostheses Provide the closest function and appearance to natural teeth Do not move in the mouth, ensuring secure use Restore chewing and speaking functions Support facial aesthetics and prevent an aged appearance Long-lasting — with proper care, can last 10 years or more Prevent shifting of teeth and jaw misalignments Treatment Process Initial examination and X-ray evaluation are performed. Dental impressions are taken, and the appropriate prosthesis type is selected. The necessary teeth are prepared (reshaped) and temporary crowns are placed. The final prosthesis is fabricated in a laboratory and permanently cemented during the final visit. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure proper adaptation. The entire process usually takes about 7–10 days. Post-Treatment Care Brush teeth at least twice a day Use dental floss and interdental brushes Avoid excessively hard foods Visit your dentist regularly for checkups Maintain good oral hygiene at all times Frequently Asked Questions Do fixed prostheses cause pain? No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and patients quickly adapt after placement. Do fixed prostheses look like natural teeth? Yes. Especially those made from zirconium or porcelain closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth. How long do fixed prostheses last? With proper care and regular dental visits, they can last for 10 years or longer. Can I eat normally with fixed prostheses? Yes. Well-made fixed prostheses restore natural chewing comfort. Should I choose implants or bridges for missing teeth? It depends on individual factors such as bone structure, aesthetic expectations, and budget. Your dentist will help determine the best option.

A Practical and Economical Solution for Missing Teeth Removable dentures are artificial teeth that patients can insert and remove themselves in cases of partial or complete tooth loss. Unlike fixed prostheses, they are not permanently attached to the mouth and are ideal when fixed prostheses or implants cannot be applied, or when all teeth are missing. Thanks to modern technology, removable dentures now offer highly aesthetic and functional results. With the use of advanced materials and improved designs, today’s removable dentures provide a much more natural appearance and comfortable fit — allowing patients to regain a healthy, confident smile. Types of Removable Dentures Partial Denture: Used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. It attaches to existing teeth with metal clasps. Complete (Full) Denture: Applied when all teeth are missing in the upper and/or lower jaw. It fits over the gums and palate. Precision Attachment Denture: A more aesthetic and comfortable partial denture that uses hidden attachments instead of visible metal clasps. Implant-Supported Removable Denture: A type of removable denture supported by dental implants, offering greater stability and durability — often used for complete edentulism (toothlessness). When Are Removable Dentures Preferred? When the jawbone is unsuitable for fixed prostheses or implants When multiple teeth are missing In cases of complete tooth loss When implants cannot be used due to age, health, or budget reasons When a temporary replacement is needed Advantages of Removable Dentures Provide an alternative when fixed prostheses are not possible Restore aesthetics by filling missing spaces Improve speech and chewing function Cost-effective and accessible treatment option Easily repairable or adjustable when needed Easy to clean and maintain since they can be removed Treatment Process Oral examination and X-rays are performed for planning. Impressions of the upper and lower jaw are taken. The denture is custom-made in a dental laboratory. Trial fittings are done to ensure comfort and aesthetics. The final denture is delivered, and usage instructions are provided. Follow-up visits are scheduled within a few months to ensure adaptation. Adapting to Removable Dentures It may take a few weeks to get used to new dentures. In the first days: Speech and chewing may feel different. A sense of pressure or fullness in the mouth is normal. Mild irritation or sensitivity may occur. These are temporary. Necessary adjustments will be made during follow-ups, and the patient will adapt completely over time. Frequently Asked Questions Do removable dentures move in the mouth? A well-made denture fits securely. Slight movement at first is normal and can be corrected with adjustments or relining. Can I eat with my dentures? Yes. Start with soft foods and gradually transition to normal chewing. Will speaking be difficult with dentures? Some speech difficulty may occur initially, but it typically resolves within a few days. Should dentures be removed at night? Yes. Dentures should be removed at night to allow gum tissues to rest and should be kept in a container filled with water. How long do removable dentures last? On average, 5–7 years. Over time, changes in mouth shape may require relining or replacement.

An Aesthetic and Functional Solution for Those Who Have Lost All Their Teeth Complete dentures are removable full dental prostheses specially designed for individuals who have lost all of their teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Commonly known as “dentures,” these prostheses restore essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and smiling — providing both aesthetic and functional benefits. With modern technology, complete dentures are now designed to closely resemble natural teeth and are customized to fit the individual’s oral anatomy for maximum comfort. They are an ideal and effective solution for elderly patients, long-term edentulous (toothless) individuals, or those who are not suitable candidates for implant treatment. Who Are Complete Dentures Suitable For? Individuals with no remaining natural teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw Patients who cannot receive implants due to age, health condition, or low bone density Those seeking a more economical alternative to fixed restorations Individuals who temporarily need full dentures while waiting for other treatments How Are Complete Dentures Made? Examination and Planning: Oral tissues and jaw structure are carefully evaluated. Impression Taking: Precise impressions are taken of the upper and lower jaws. Jaw Relation and Try-ins: The alignment between the jaws is recorded, and trial fittings are made to assess comfort, aesthetics, and speech. Fabrication and Delivery: The denture is custom-made in a dental laboratory and delivered to the patient after final adjustments. Follow-Up and Adjustments: Minor corrections are made during follow-up visits to ensure optimal fit and comfort. The entire process is typically completed within 2–3 weeks. Advantages of Complete Dentures Restore missing teeth in a natural and aesthetic way Regain normal speech, chewing, and smiling functions Support facial structure and reduce the collapsed appearance of the cheeks Cost-effective and easy to apply Removable for easy cleaning and maintenance Easily repairable or replaceable when necessary Getting Used to Complete Dentures It may take a few weeks to fully adapt to new dentures. During this period: Minor irritation, speech changes, or chewing difficulty may occur Dentist adjustments can help improve comfort and fit Patience and consistent use accelerate adaptation How to Care for Complete Dentures Rinse dentures after every meal Clean once daily with a denture brush and mild soap (avoid toothpaste) Remove and store in a water-filled container overnight Brush the gums and oral tissues daily to maintain hygiene Schedule regular dental checkups Frequently Asked Questions Will my denture move while speaking or eating? Slight movement is normal at first, but oral tissues adapt over time. If necessary, the denture can be relined for better stability. Can I eat with my complete denture? Yes. Start with soft foods and gradually move to normal meals as you get used to it. Will my speech change? Initially, some pronunciation difficulties may occur, but speech returns to normal within a short time. How long do complete dentures last? With proper care, they typically last 5–7 years. However, due to natural bone and tissue changes, they may need to be remade later. Should I remove my denture at night? Yes. Removing it allows the tissues to rest and promotes oral health.