Dentures

What are dentures?

Dentures are an effective solution for individuals who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. They can improve the appearance of your smile, help you to eat and speak more comfortably, and enhance your overall quality of life. In this article, we will discuss why dentures are needed, how they are made, their history, and the different types available.

Why are they needed?

Dentures are needed when a person loses their natural teeth due to age, injury, or dental disease. Without teeth, eating and speaking can be challenging, and self-esteem can suffer. They provide a natural-looking and functional replacement for missing teeth, enabling individuals to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

How are they made?

The process of making dentures involves several steps. First, your dentist will take measurements of your mouth to create a custom mold. This mold will be used to create a wax model of your dentures. Once the wax model is made, your dentist will have you try it on to ensure that it fits properly and looks natural. Any necessary adjustments will be made at this stage. After the wax model is finalised, it will be used to create the final denture which will be adjusted to fit your mouth properly and provide a comfortable fit.

History of dentures

Dentures have been around for centuries. The ancient Egyptians used dentures made of ivory and bone, and the Romans used dentures made of human and animal teeth. In the 18th century, dentures began to be made with porcelain, which provided a more natural-looking appearance. Today, they are typically made of acrylic resin or porcelain and are custom-made to fit each patient’s unique mouth.

Types of dentures

Removable partial – are for patients who are missing some of their teeth on a particular arch. Fixed partial dentures, also known as “crown and bridge” dentures, are made from crowns that are fitted on the remaining teeth. They act as abutments and pontics and are made from materials resembling the missing teeth. Fixed bridges are more expensive than removable appliances but are more stable.

Complete – are worn by patients who are missing all of the teeth in a single arch—i.e., the maxillary (upper) or mandibular (lower) arch—or, more commonly, in both arches.

Copy dentures – Can be made for partial but mainly complete denture patients. These dentures require fewer visits to make and usually are made for older patients, patients who would have difficulty adjusting to new dentures, would like a spare pair of dentures or like the aesthetics of their dentures already. This requires taking an impression of the patient’s current denture and remaking them.

Cost

The cost of dentures in Poland is less than in the UK, however because it will involve a few visits to the dentist, it might not make financial sense to come to Poland for treatment unless you plan to holiday here for a couple of weeks or make a few visits. Full Dentures (per arch) cost from around £250.

Medical uses

Dentures do not feel like real teeth, nor do they function

like real teeth, however there are some benefits:

Mastication or chewing ability is improved by replacing edentulous (without teeth) areas with denture teeth.
Aesthetics, because the presence of teeth gives a natural appearance to the face and wearing a denture to replace missing teeth provides support for the lips and cheeks and corrects the collapsed appearance that results from the loss of teeth.
Pronunciation, because replacing missing teeth, especially the anteriors, enables patients to speak better. There is especially improvement in pronouncing words containing sibilants or fricatives.
Self-esteem, because improved looks and speech boost confidence in the ability to interact socially.

Tooth loss

People can become entirely edentulous for many reasons, the most prevalent being removal due to dental disease, which typically relates to oral flora control, i.e., periodontal disease and tooth decay. Other reasons include pregnancy, tooth developmental defects caused by severe malnutrition, genetic defects such as dentinogenesis imperfecta, trauma, or drug use.

Materials

False teeth are mainly made from acrylic due to the ease of material manipulation and likeness to intra-oral tissues, i.e.. gums. Most are fabricated from heat-cured acrylic polymethyl methacrylate and rubber-reinforced polymethyl methacrylate.

Colouring agents and synthetic fibres are added to obtain the tissue-like shade, and to mimic the small capillaries of the oral mucosa, respectively.

However, dentures made from acrylic can be fragile and fracture easily if the patient has trouble adapting neuromuscular control. This can be overcome by reinforcing the denture base with cobalt chromium (Co-Cr). They are often thinner (therefore more comfortable) and stronger (to prevent repeating fractures).

Conclusion

Dentures are an essential solution for individuals who have lost their natural teeth. They can improve your quality of life by restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. The process of creating dentures involves several steps, including taking measurements, creating a wax model, and adjusting the final denture to fit properly. Dentures have a long history, dating back centuries, and today they are typically made of acrylic resin or porcelain. There are two main types of dentures: full and partial, as well as implant-supported dentures. If you are in need of dentures, talk to your dentist about which type is right for you.

Dentures False teeth tooth loss

Dentists in Poland

16 February 2023

Dental extractions

Reasons for dental extractions

There are many reasons why dental extractions are necessary, the main ones being tooth damage, due to breakage or decay especially when they are associated with toothache. Dental extractions are also referred to as exodontia or exodontics.

A dental extraction is a common dental procedure used to remove a damaged, decayed, or otherwise problematic tooth. While most dental problems can be treated with less invasive methods, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals, sometimes dental extractions are necessary to prevent further damage or alleviate pain. Whether you’re experiencing a severe toothache or your dentist has recommended an extraction for other reasons, understanding the process and aftercare is essential for a successful outcome.

Sometimes wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck and unable to grow normally into the mouth) and may cause recurrent infections of the gum (pericoronitis). In orthodontics if the teeth are crowded, sound teeth may be extracted (often bicuspids) to create space so the rest of the teeth can be straightened.

Procedure

Tooth extraction is usually relatively straightforward, and the vast majority can be usually performed quickly while the individual is awake by using local anaesthetic injections to eliminate pain. While local anaesthetic blocks pain, mechanical forces are still felt. Some teeth are more difficult to remove for several reasons, especially related to the tooth’s position, the shape of the tooth roots, and the integrity of the tooth.

Dental fear

Dental phobia is an issue for some individuals, and tooth extraction tends to be feared more than other dental treatments such as fillings. If a tooth is buried in the bone, a surgical or trans alveolar approach may be required, which involves cutting the gum away and removing the bone which is holding the tooth in with a surgical drill. After the tooth is removed, stitches are used to replace the gum into the normal position.

Post extraction

Immediately after the tooth is removed, a bite pack is used to apply pressure to the tooth socket and stop the bleeding. After a tooth extraction, dentists usually give advice which revolves around not disturbing the blood clot in the socket by not touching the area with a finger or the tongue, by avoiding vigorous rinsing of the mouth, and avoiding strenuous activity.

Sucking, such as through a straw, is to be avoided. If the blood clot is dislodged, bleeding can restart, or alveolar osteitis (“dry socket”) can develop, which can be very painful and lead to delayed healing of the socket. Smoking is avoided for at least 24 hours as it impairs wound healing and makes dry socket significantly more likely. Most advise hot saltwater mouth baths which start 24 hours after the extraction.

Other reasons

Severe tooth decay or infection – (acute or chronic alveolar abscess, such as periapical abscess – collection of infected material (pus) forming at the tip of the root of a tooth.). Despite the reduction in worldwide prevalence of dental caries, it is still the most common reason for extraction of (non-third molar) teeth, accounting for up to two thirds of extractions
Severe gum disease – which may affect the supporting tissues and bone structures of teeth
Treatment of symptomatic impacted wisdom teeth – who have or cause certain diseases such as non-restorable caries or cysts
Preventive/prophylactic removal – of asymptomatic impacted wisdom teeth
Supernumerary teeth – which are blocking other teeth from coming in
Supplementary or malformed teeth
Fractured teeth
Cosmetic – to remove teeth of poor appearance, unsuitable for restoration
In preparation for orthodontic treatment – (braces)
Teeth which cannot be restored endodontically
Prosthetics – teeth detrimental to the fit or appearance of dentures
Lower cost – compared to other treatments

Types of extraction

Simple extractions – are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth, usually with the patient under local anaesthetic, and require only the use of instruments to elevate and/or grasp the visible portion of the tooth. Typically, the tooth is lifted using an elevator, and using dental forceps, rocked back and forth until the periodontal ligament has been sufficiently broken and the supporting alveolar bone has been adequately widened to make the tooth loose enough to remove. Typically, when teeth are removed with forceps, slow, steady pressure is applied with controlled force.
Surgical extractions – involve the removal of teeth that cannot be easily accessed, for example because they have broken under the gum line or because they have not erupted fully. Surgical extractions almost always require an incision. In a surgical extraction the doctor may elevate the soft tissues covering the tooth and bone and may also remove some of the overlying and/or surrounding jawbone tissue with a drill or osteotome. Frequently, the tooth may be split into multiple pieces to facilitate its removal.

Replacement options for missing teeth

Following dental extraction, a gap is left. There are various options to fill this gap including a bridge, implant or dentures.

Dental extractions in Poland

The cost of extractions in Poland are much less than in the UK. Typically, an extraction will cost £30 in Poland compared to £125 in the UK. Surgical extractions can cost as little as £65 compared to £295 (UK).

Dental extraction exodontia exodontics Extractions tooth damage

Dentists in Poland

14 February 2023

Dental restoration

Dental fillings in Poland

A dental restoration or dental filling is a treatment to restore the function, integrity, and morphology of missing tooth structure resulting from caries or external trauma as well as to the replacement of such structure supported by dental implants. This treatment is widely available in Poland. The goal of dental restoration is to improve the function and appearance of the teeth, while also maintaining good oral health.

Types of dental restoration

There are several different types of dental restoration procedures that can be performed, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Some of the most common procedures include:

Fillings: This is the most common type of dental restoration, and involves filling a cavity with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or gold. Fillings are used to restore the function of the tooth and prevent further decay.
Crowns: A crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to provide support and restore its function. Crowns are typically made from porcelain or metal and can last for many years with proper care.
Bridges: A bridge is a dental appliance that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The appliance is anchored to the adjacent teeth with crowns, and a false tooth or teeth are attached to the bridge to fill the gap.
Implants: Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They are surgically implanted into the jawbone and serve as a replacement for the root of the missing tooth. Once the implant is securely in place, a crown is attached to the top to provide a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth.
Dentures: Dentures are removable appliances that are used to replace multiple missing teeth. They can be full or partial and are designed to fit snugly over the gums.

Regardless of the specific procedure, dental restoration is a critical aspect of maintaining good oral health. When left untreated, dental problems can worsen and lead to more serious health issues such as infections, gum disease, and tooth loss.

If you are experiencing dental issues or have missing teeth, it is important to consult with a dental professional. They can evaluate your needs and recommend the best course of action for restoring your teeth and maintaining your oral health.

In addition to professional dental care, it is also important to practice good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, as well as avoiding sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to tooth decay.

Tooth preparation

Restoring a tooth to good form and function requires two steps:

preparing the tooth for placement of restorative material or materials
placement of these materials

The process of preparation usually involves cutting the tooth with a rotary dental hand piece and dental burrs or a dental laser. This is to make space for the planned restorative materials and to remove any dental decay or portions of the tooth that are structurally unsound. If permanent restoration cannot be carried out immediately after tooth preparation, temporary restoration may be performed.

In preparing a tooth for a restoration, a number of considerations will determine the type and extent of the preparation. The most important factor to consider is decay. For the most part, the extent of the decay will define the extent of the preparation, and in turn, the subsequent method and appropriate materials for restoration.

Direct restorations

This technique involves placing a soft or malleable filling into the prepared tooth and building up the tooth. The material is then set hard, and the tooth is restored. The advantage of direct restorations is that they usually set quickly and can be placed in a single procedure. The dentist has a variety of different filling options to choose from. A decision is usually made based on the location and severity of the associated cavity. Since the material is required to set while in contact with the tooth, limited energy (heat) is passed to the tooth from the setting process.

Indirect restorations

In this technique the restoration is fabricated outside of the mouth using the dental impressions of the prepared tooth. Common indirect restorations include inlays and onlays, crowns, bridges, and veneers. Usually, a dental technician fabricates the indirect restoration from records the dentist has provided. The finished restoration is usually bonded permanently with a dental cement. It is often done in two separate visits to the dentist. Common indirect restorations are done using gold or ceramics.

While the indirect restoration is being prepared, a provisory/temporary restoration is sometimes used to cover the prepared tooth to help maintain the surrounding dental tissues.

Removable dental prostheses (mainly dentures) are sometimes considered a form of indirect dental restoration, as they are made to replace missing teeth.

Restoration using dental implants

Dental implants are anchors placed in bone, usually made from titanium or titanium alloy. They can support dental restorations which replace missing teeth. Some restorative applications include supporting crowns, bridges, or dental prostheses.

Overall, dental restoration is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and can help to improve both the function and appearance of your teeth. Whether you need a filling, a crown, an implant, or another type of dental restoration, working with a trusted dental professional can help you achieve the best possible results.

FAQs about Dental Restorations

What is Restorative dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is the study of diagnosis of and management of diseases of the teeth and their supporting structures. It includes the rehabilitation of the dentition to the functional and aesthetic requirements of the patient e.g., replacing of missing or damaged teeth. Fillings, crowns, bridges and implants are common restorative solutions. The aim is to bring back your natural smile and prevent future oral health issues.