A removable prosthesis intends to replace one or several missing teeth. Depending upon a dentist’s assessment, it may be fabricated with different materials such as acrylic, combination of metal and acrylic, and flexible thermoplastics. A conventional prosthesis consists of a metal framework, an acrylic base and artificial teeth. The metal most commonly used for the framework is a chrome cobalt alloy. The denture is held in place directly by clasps and supported by rests and oral tissues. It must be well designed to protect the remaining tooth structures. Improperly designed and poorly fitted dentures could damage the supporting teeth and other tissues.
The removable denture is indicated for partially edentulous patients who have significant bone loss especially at the front since the flange of the prosthesis provides enough bulk for lip support. It offers excellent cleansability since it can be removed from the mouth for regular cleaning. Plaque removal is necessary to prevent tooth decay and gum problems. The dentist recommends removal of the dentures at night before sleeping to allow the gums to rest. The denture also aids in chewing through proper selection and set-up of the artificial teeth. Filling up the edentulous spaces does not only offer mechanical advantage – it also facilitates proper speech and improves a person’s appearance, giving one a confident smile. Moreover, it prevents TMJ problems since it maintains a healthy relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Restoration of centric occlusion helps maintain the jaw to its centric relation. Moreover, a removable denture prevents drifting, tilting and supraeruption of teeth to edentulous portions of the jaw by filling up the spaces with artificial teeth.
Modifications to the denture could be done by the dentist depending upon the needs of the patient. After careful diagnosis and treatment planning for prosthetic rehabilitation through a partial denture, it is the dentist’s goal to restore proper function of the oral cavity and esthetic improvement of the patient’s smile.
