Complete dentures (full dentures) are the most common restorative solution for patients who have lost all their teeth in one arch. However, understanding the specifics of this restorative option is essential for dentists to provide appropriate advice and select the right solution for each patient.
It’s a matter of aesthetics or fit and a comprehensive understanding of dentistry techniques, materials, and technologies. This article delves into the detailed instructions and key considerations regarding complete dentures.
Dentists must consider several critical technical factors to create high-quality complete dentures that suit the patient’s oral structure.
This is the first and most crucial step in the fabrication process for complete dentures. Accurate impressions provide a precise model of the patient’s oral cavity and directly affect the fit of the dentures.
Ill-fitting dentures that do not conform closely to the gingiva or oral anatomy can cause discomfort, irritation, and pain during use, especially while eating or speaking. Moreover, an inaccurate impression can result in loose dentures prone to shifting, compromising stability and functionality.
The impression must capture the exact contours of the palate and gingiva to ensure a snug and stable fit. Achieving precision at this stage reduces potential issues, streamlines the fabrication process, and minimizes the need for adjustments.
Dentists often use CAD/CAM technology to facilitate accurate and efficient impression-taking. This advanced technique captures detailed digital scans of the dentition, gingiva, and other oral structures, creating a precise digital model that serves as the foundation for laboratory fabrication.
The choice of material for fabricating complete dentures is critical, as it directly impacts the durability and aesthetics of the prosthesis. If the material lacks sufficient strength, the dentures may be prone to wear, fractures, or deformation, necessitating early replacement.
Laboratories commonly use acrylic, porcelain, or flexible resins for full denture fabrication.
Inappropriate material selection can lead to discomfort or even irritation of the gingiva and oral mucosa. Skilled technicians must carefully choose materials that not only withstand the mechanical forces in the oral cavity but also provide a natural and comfortable experience for the patient.
To ensure that complete dentures fit well and provide a natural look, dentists and technicians must collaborate closely to design them based on the unique characteristics of the patient’s oral cavity.
When the complete denture is finalized, trying it in the patient’s mouth is a critical step. If the denture does not fit properly, the patient may experience discomfort, gum sores, bleeding, or pain during use.
After the trial fitting, adjustments may be necessary to enhance the fit, comfort, and aesthetics of the denture. Sometimes, the position or size of the prosthetic teeth needs modification to ensure that the denture does not irritate the mouth.
To achieve a perfect fit with the gingival structure and maxilla, the dentist may need to adjust the metal or acrylic framework of the denture.
Over time, as the gingival tissue may undergo slight changes, additional adjustments may be required to ensure the denture does not cause pressure points or discomfort.
Complete dentures are crafted from acrylic or composite materials, supported by a gingival base, and rely on regular adjustments for proper fit. In contrast, implant-supported dentures require surgical placement of implants into the jawbone, providing a stable anchor for the denture.
While implant-supported options offer long-term stability, they are more invasive, costly, and require extended recovery periods.
Complete dentures are more affordable and can be completed within days or weeks. Implant-supported dentures involve higher costs and a longer timeline, including surgery and recovery, often spanning several months.
Complete dentures may lack stability, especially during eating or speaking, while implant-supported dentures, secured by implants, provide superior stability and prevent shifting. For patients with financial or physical limitations, complete dentures remain an accessible and effective solution.
Implant-supported dentures deliver the highest level of aesthetics, mimicking natural teeth closely due to their integration with the jawbone. Implants are highly durable, often lasting decades with proper care, making them a long-term investment in functionality and appearance.
In today’s dental field, mastering and applying advancements in the fabrication of complete dentures can significantly impact dentists and patients. Compared to implant-supported dentures, complete dentures offer a cost-effective and time-efficient solution. If you are looking for a laboratory that delivers high-quality restorations, contact VTS today!
