Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of balanced occlusion?
What is the purpose of balanced occlusion?
What are some techniques that may be used to achieve balanced occlusion?
What are some techniques that may be used to achieve balanced occlusion?
During denture fitting, what does a dentist check for?
During denture fitting, what does a dentist check for?
Why might a denture wearer experience discomfort over time?
Why might a denture wearer experience discomfort over time?
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What plays a significant role in restoring functionality and aesthetics to those who lost their natural teeth?
What plays a significant role in restoring functionality and aesthetics to those who lost their natural teeth?
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Why are regular check-ups with a dental professional recommended for denture wearers?
Why are regular check-ups with a dental professional recommended for denture wearers?
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What is the primary goal of a complete denture?
What is the primary goal of a complete denture?
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Which materials are commonly used in modern complete dentures?
Which materials are commonly used in modern complete dentures?
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How are direct impressions taken for complete dentures?
How are direct impressions taken for complete dentures?
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What does occlusion refer to in dentistry?
What does occlusion refer to in dentistry?
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Why are indirect impressions used for creating complete dentures?
Why are indirect impressions used for creating complete dentures?
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What is the purpose of adjustments in complete dentures?
What is the purpose of adjustments in complete dentures?
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Study Notes
Complete Denture
Overview
A complete denture, also known as a full denture, is a type of artificial replacement for missing natural teeth. It consists of a gum-colored base and artificial teeth, held in place by suction or the shape of the gums and surrounding tissues. The goal of a complete denture is to restore functionality and aesthetics to the oral cavity, enabling the user to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
Materials
Modern complete dentures are usually made from various types of heat-resistant plastic, such as polycarbonates or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). These materials offer advantages like ease of manipulation, bondability, and a wide range of color options, ensuring accuracy in shaping and contouring the dentures to mimic natural teeth.
Impressions
Impressions are taken from the mouth of the patient to create a replica or model of the oral structures, including the gums, bones, and remaining teeth. Two types of impressions are commonly used for complete dentures: direct and indirect. Direct impressions are taken immediately inside the mouth using dental putty, whereas indirect impressions require the use of a dental tray filled with an impression material and left in the mouth for several seconds.
Occlusion
Occlusion refers to the arrangement of the upper and lower rows of teeth when they come together in biting or chewing actions. Balanced occlusion ensures that the forces of mastication are distributed evenly across the entire length of the tooth structure, reducing the risk of developing temporomandibular joint disorders. To achieve balanced occlusion, specific techniques may be employed, such as adjusting the vertical dimension of the teeth, modifying the inclination angle, or altering the position of the front teeth.
Fitting
Once the dentures are fabricated, they need to be fitted properly to ensure they provide maximum comfort, retention, and stability. During the fitting process, the dentist checks for proper alignment, occlusal equilibrium, and esthetic expectations, making necessary adjustments with specialized tools. Some common adjustments may include trimming the edges, adding tissue conditioners, or padding the undersurface of the denture.
Adjustments
Over time, the wearer may notice some discomfort or loose feeling of the dentures. This could be due to changes in the oral anatomy, such as tissue shrinkage or bone resorption, which require periodic adjustments to maintain proper fit. Regular check-ups with a dental professional are recommended for monitoring these changes and ensuring the dentures remain functional and comfortable.
In summary, complete dentures play a significant role in restoring functionality and aesthetics to people who have lost their natural teeth. The process involves careful selection of materials, precise impressions, balancing occlusion, accurate fitting, and regular adjustments to maintain optimal performance.
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Description
Explore the details of complete dentures, including materials used, impression techniques, occlusion considerations, fitting process, and necessary adjustments for optimal performance. Learn how these artificial replacements for missing natural teeth are essential for restoring functionality and aesthetics to the oral cavity.