Permanent Dentures

Introduction:

Dentures are the most efficient, cost-effective treatment for replacing missing teeth and surrounding tissues. There are many types of dentures available, namely complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are the replacements for the teeth and tissues in the entire dental arch. The complete dentures are of two types – permanent and removable dentures. Partial dentures are those dentures that replace one or more teeth in the upper or lower arch. They are also available in permanent and removable forms.

Dentures have a great role in improving the quality of life and confidence level in individuals with missing teeth. However, most patients face some difficulty while wearing dentures, especially in the case of removable dentures. These dentures are not fixed to the jaw, so they may feel uncomfortable while eating and speaking, and a lack of self-confidence persists while in social gatherings.

What Are Permanent Dentures?

Permanent dentures, also known as fixed or non-removable dentures, are false teeth attached to the jaw with the help of implants. Implants are artificial roots made of metals that replace the missing roots. These implants are placed on either side of the jaw, in which the permanent dentures can be screwed and can be held in position. They are more stable than removable dentures. They resemble natural teeth. With permanent dentures, chewing, biting, talking, and smiling are much better for denture wearers.

What Are the Advantages of Permanent Dentures?

The removable dentures often lack stability, and they can be easily misplaced, shift the position, and can easily fall out. With permanent dentures, all these shortcomings of removable dentures can be solved. The main advantages of permanent dentures are as follows;

• Stability: As these dentures are fixed to gums, they offer exceptional stability. The chewing and biting forces do not cause any displacement of the denture.

• Bone Loss Is Comparatively Less: In the case of traditional dentures, gradual bone loss and gum changes are observed. In the case of permanent dentures, bone loss is negligible, as the implants that support dentures offer protection against bone loss.

• Natural Look: It looks more natural than traditional dentures.

• Longevity: Longevity is more when compared to removable dentures.

• Painless: In the case of ill-fitting removable dentures, one common problem patients encounter is pain. With the help of permanent dentures, pain is eliminated.

• No Adhesives: Removable partial dentures mostly require some adhesives for their stability. They usually contain harmful chemicals. However, in the case of permanent dentures, there is no need for any adhesives. It gives better support to lips and cheeks.

• Improves Quality of Life: With the help of permanent dentures, the patient’s smile, chewing, and speaking can be restored as before. This enhances the patient’s confidence and self-esteem.

What Are the Disadvantages of Permanent Dentures?

The main disadvantages of permanent dentures are as follows:

• It can be costly.

• The placement of permanent dentures is influenced by several factors. It cannot be placed in all individuals.

• The placement of implants may cause swelling, pain, or discomfort in some individuals.

• Requires multiple visits to the dental clinic.

• The maintenance and repair of permanent dentures are more difficult.

What Are the Indications for Permanent Dentures?

The main indications for permanent dentures include

• If a patient is suffering from systemic diseases like epilepsy, then in those cases, permanent dentures are indicated. Removable dentures can cause more harm in such individuals if there is an episode of epilepsy.

• Removable dentures are less appealing in terms of esthetics when compared to fixed dentures, and some find it difficult to adapt to removable dentures.

• To treat spacing in the dental arch caused due to orthodontic treatment.

• If there is an unsuitable tooth angle that restricts the insertion and removal of partial dentures, then permanent dentures are required.

In Which Situations Permanent Dentures Are Contraindicated?

The permanent dentures are mainly contraindicated in the following situations:

• Very young and very old patients.

• Patients with medical conditions like spastic or cerebral thrombosis (blood clot in the brain’s venous sinuses).

• In patients who cannot tolerate local anesthesia (LA) because the procedure involves the application of LA.

• In individuals with a high caries incidence, partial fixed dentures are generally contraindicated.

• Patients with periodontal issues (unhealthy gums).

How to Prepare for the Procedure?

• The doctor takes a thorough medical and dental history. One has to inform the doctor about any medical conditions if present.

• An X-ray of the mouth will be taken.

• Molds of the teeth are prepared.

• The doctor will let the patient know about the estimated duration of the treatment once the assessment is done.

What Are the Steps Involved in Permanent Denture Placement?

The steps involved are;

• The dentist will remove all damaged teeth.

• The jawbone is prepared for implant placement. This may involve placing a bone graft. The jaws have to be healed completely before proceeding with the next step.

• Once the jaws are healed, minor surgery is done for the placement of implants.

• Above the implants, the custom-made dentures are attached with the help of a connector. This can be done approximately three months after implant placement. The connector allows the patient to remove and reinsert the denture according to their comfort.

What to Expect After the Procedure?

• After the implant placement procedure, one may expect minor bleeding, swelling, or slight pain. With the help of medications and a cold compress, the condition can be quickly resolved.

• After the denture placement, chances of complications are very rare. If any issue persists, it should be reported immediately to the doctor.

How to Clean Permanent Dentures?

Permanent dentures can be cleaned just like natural teeth by normal brushing. One may not feel comfortable initially but gradually will get adapted. If there is a loss of color, then one can get professional help to clean the dentures.

How Much Do Permanent Dentures Cost?

Permanent dentures are quite expensive. The cost will vary depending on the type of material used for the denture base, artificial teeth, and the nature of implants. Even though permanent dentures may appear expensive initially, the longevity and comfort outweigh the expenses compared to removable dentures.

Conclusion:

Teeth are very essential for mastication and aid in digestion. Missing teeth can be replaced to maintain the harmony of the oral cavity. Permanent dentures look more natural and are easier to wear. Under the efficient guidance of the dentist, it is possible to recreate a natural smile with the help of permanent dentures. After the placement of dentures, one must also pay attention to routine check-ups and dental hygiene maintenance to avoid any complications.