Introduction to Prosthetics and Dentures

Introduction to Prosthetics

• Prosthetics is the art and science of replacing missing body parts.
• A prosthesis is an artificial replacement for a missing body part.
• Prosthodontics (Prosthetic Dentistry) is a specialty that diagnoses, treats, rehabilitates, and maintains oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of patients with missing teeth or maxillofacial tissues.
• Dentulous refers to a mouth with natural teeth.
• Partially edentulous refers to a mouth with some natural teeth lost.
• Edentulous refers to a mouth without any teeth.

Denture Overview

• A denture is an artificial replacement for missing teeth and adjacent tissue
• Complete denture replaces all of the teeth and associated structures in the upper or lower jaw.
• Removable Partial Denture (RPD) replaces some teeth.
• Fixed Bridge replaces missing teeth with a fixed appliance.
• Implant is a surgical fixture that replaces the root of a tooth.

Denture Components

• Dentures are composed of a base and artificial teeth.
• The base is the part of the denture that rests on the gums.
• The base has three surfaces: polished surface, fitting surface, and occlusal surface.
• The buccal flange is the part of the base that covers the cheek.
• The labial flange is the part of the base that covers the lips.
• The lingual flange is the part of the base that covers the tongue.
• The denture border is where the base meets the gums.

Objectives of a Complete Denture

• Restore mastication function
• Improve facial aesthetics, especially the lower third of the face.
• Correct speech defects.
• Preserve the remaining tissue in the mouth.
• Patient satisfaction.

Construction Steps: Clinical

• Diagnosis (extra & intraoral): assess the patient's oral health and needs.
• Primary impression: make a preliminary impression to assess the mouth's shape.
• Secondary impression: make a more precise impression after customizing the tray.
• Face bow record: establish the relationship between the jaw and the skull.
• Bite registration: record the relationship between the upper and lower teeth.
• Try-in: assess the fit and appearance of the denture before processing.

Construction Steps: Laboratory

• Pouring primary impression: create a cast from the primary impression.
• Special tray on cast: use a custom tray to make a more precise impression.
• Boxing and pouring secondary cast: create a cast from the secondary impression.
• Occlusion blocks: create a template to guide the setting of the artificial teeth..
• Mounting on articulator: mount the cast on a device that simulates jaw movements.
• Setting of artificial teeth: arrange the teeth in a specific position.
• Processing: fabricate the denture from acrylic resin.
• Laboratory remount: adjust the denture after processing to ensure proper fit and occlusion.
• Denture delivery: deliver the denture to the patient.

Radiographic Examination

• Radiographic examination helps to evaluate the bone density, identify any potential issues, and assess the position of remaining teeth.

This quiz covers the fundamentals of prosthetics, including the definition and types of prostheses, as well as a detailed overview of dentures. Learn about the different categories of edentulous conditions and the components of dental prosthetics. Perfect for students studying prosthodontics and related fields.