Removable Prosthodontics in Willowbrook

Removable prosthodontics refer to dental prostheses that can be taken out and put back into the mouth by the patient. These prostheses are designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues.

• Dentures: Full or partial dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Full dentures are used when all teeth are missing in an arch, while partial dentures are utilized when some natural teeth remain.
• Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs): These are used when a patient still has some healthy natural teeth. RPDs have clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth, providing stability and support to the appliance.
• Overdentures: These are dentures that fit over remaining natural teeth, dental implants, or roots. They provide better stability compared to regular dentures.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Appliances: These removable devices can help with issues related to the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull. They are used to address conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding), jaw misalignment, and TMJ disorders.
• Medical Prosthodontics: Trauma or surgery can sometimes leave a significant gap in a person’s mouth. A medical prosthodontic can be designed to fill in this gap, so the patient can eat, drink and swallow normally.

Removable prosthodontics offer versatility, allowing for easier cleaning and maintenance. However, they may not provide the same stability as fixed prostheses like dental implants or bridges. The choice between removable and fixed prosthetics often depends on a patient’s specific dental needs, preferences, and overall oral health.

A hybrid prosthesis, commonly known as a hybrid denture or fixed-detachable prosthesis, combines elements of both removable and fixed dental prostheses. It’s a type of dental restoration that offers a more stable and permanent solution compared to traditional removable dentures while still being removable by a dentist if needed.

Here are the key features of a hybrid prosthesis:

• Fixed and Removable Elements: A hybrid prosthesis typically consists of a fixed component, which is securely attached to dental implants, and a removable component that can be detached by a dentist for maintenance or repair.
• Implant Support: The fixed portion of the prosthesis is supported by dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone. These implants serve as anchors for the restoration, providing stability and preventing slippage or movement.
• Acrylic or Ceramic Material: The visible part of the hybrid prosthesis, which resembles natural teeth and gums, is often made of acrylic or ceramic materials. This portion is designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth and is customized to fit the patient’s mouth.
• Improved Stability: Compared to traditional removable dentures, hybrid prostheses offer increased stability and functionality. They are firmly anchored to the implants, which helps in chewing, speaking, and overall comfort.
• Ease of Maintenance: While the prosthesis is fixed in place by the implants, the removable aspect allows a dentist to easily access and maintain the restoration, if necessary.

Hybrid prostheses are often recommended for individuals who have lost a significant number of teeth or who have experienced extensive dental issues. They provide a more secure and natural-feeling option compared to removable dentures, offering increased confidence and comfort to the wearer. However, the process of getting a hybrid prosthesis involves initial implant surgery and a period of healing before the final restoration can be attached.