Dentadura postiza, or dentures, as they are known in English, play a pivotal role in restoring oral health and functionality for individuals who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. Whether due to dental disease, trauma or genetic conditions, tooth loss can significantly affect one's ability to speak, eat, and smile with confidence. Thankfully, with advancements in dental technology, dentures offer an effective solution.
Dentures are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They are typically fabricated from acrylic resin, sometimes coupled with metal attachments, to replicate the natural appearance of gums and teeth. There are predominantly two types of dentures available: complete and partial. Complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures are used when some healthy, natural teeth remain.
Complete dentures themselves can be "conventional" or "immediate." A conventional denture is made and placed in the patient's mouth after the remaining teeth have been removed, and the gum tissue has healed, which could take several months. Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. However, bones and gums shrink over time, especially during the first six months after tooth removal, requiring more frequent adjustments to fit properly.
On the other hand, partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases connected by metal frames. Besides filling the gaps left by missing teeth, they prevent other teeth from changing position, maintaining the structural integrity of the person’s jaw and facial shape.
A significant innovation in denture design is the incorporation of implants, called implant-supported dentures or overdentures. Here, the dentures are attached to the implants surgically placed in your jawbone, providing excellent stability and reducing bone loss often associated with complete dentures.
While dentures are not the same as natural teeth and may take some time to get used to, modern dentures look and feel much closer to natural teeth than ever before. Moreover, with proper care, such as overnight soaking and daily cleaning, dentures can last for a very long time.
The field of prosthodontics, which includes the creation and fitting of dentures, has progressed immensely over the years. Technological developments, including digital impressions and 3D printing, have revolutionized denture fabrication accuracy, comfort, and aesthetics.
In conclusion, dentadura postiza provides a dependable and time-tested solution for individuals suffering from tooth loss. It's essential for such individuals to consult with a proficient dentist to find the best solution for their unique needs and regain the confidence of a healthy, beautiful smile.