Prosthodontics

Prosthodontic treatment aims to eliminate the difficulties that individuals face in their daily lives by using various artificial structures such as dentures, bridges and implants to replace missing teeth.

The treatment is individualized according to the patient's needs and condition and can often involve several areas of dentistry. Prosthodontic treatment can significantly improve patients' quality of life by meeting both aesthetic and functional needs.

With a variety of options such as implant-supported dentures, fixed or removable bridges, full or partial dentures, this treatment occupies an important place in modern dentistry.

Specialist dentists apply these treatments to maintain and improve patients' oral health, while also taking into account aesthetic appearance and functionality.

How Long Does Prosthodontic Treatment Take?

The duration of prosthodontic treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment and the needs of the patient. Here are some factors and general durations:

• Duration by Treatment Type:
  • Crowns and Bridges: These treatments can usually be completed within a few weeks. At the first appointment, measurements are taken and a temporary solution may be applied. The permanent crown or bridge is usually prepared in the laboratory and placed at a second appointment.
  • Full or Partial Dentures: This type of treatment can also take several weeks. Multiple appointments may be required to measure, make and adjust the fit of the dentures.
  • Dental Implants: Implant treatment can take longer, sometimes from a few months to a year. After the implant is placed, a healing process is required, which usually takes several months. After healing is complete, measurements are taken for the prosthetic structure to be installed.
• Duration according to the patient's condition:
  • Oral Health Status: The patient's oral health condition can affect the treatment process. For example, if there is gum disease or bone loss, these problems may need to be treated first.
  • Complex Conditions: Some complex conditions, such as when multiple teeth are missing or when serious bone reconstruction is required, may take longer.
• Personal Factors:
  • Patient's Speed of Recovery: Individuals may have different healing processes. Some patients may recover faster, while others may take longer.
• Other Factors:
  • Frequency of Appointments and Compliance: How often the patient is able to attend treatment and how well they adhere to the treatment plan can also affect the duration.

As a result, prosthodontic treatment varies from person to person. To determine a precise duration, it is best to consult with a dentist, taking into account the patient's specific situation.

Do Prosthetic Teeth Feel Like Real Teeth?

Thanks to modern dentistry techniques and materials, prosthetic teeth can feel and look very close to real teeth. However, there are some things to consider when it comes to whether prosthetic teeth feel like real teeth:

• Material Quality and Workmanship: High-quality materials and skillful craftsmanship contribute to a prosthetic tooth feeling closer to natural teeth. Materials such as porcelain and ceramic can mimic the color and texture of real teeth.
• Personalization and Fit: Prosthetic teeth are customized to the size of the patient's mouth. A well-made fit ensures a comfortable wear, just like natural teeth.
• Functionality: Prosthetic teeth perform very close to real teeth in performing functions such as chewing and speaking. However, in some cases, it may take some time for patients to get used to these new structures.
• Perception and Sensory Differences: At first, the presence of prosthetic teeth may feel different in the mouth. However, over time, most patients get used to this sensation and the teeth begin to feel natural.
• Care and Adaptation Process: The care and cleaning of prosthetic teeth is similar to that of real teeth. Initially, it may require an adaptation process, but after this process, many patients realize that prosthetic teeth offer a similar feeling to natural teeth.

As a result, although prosthetic teeth cannot exactly replicate the feel of real teeth, thanks to modern technologies, they offer a very close feeling and functionality to real teeth. Patients usually get used to these structures over time and start to use them like their natural teeth.

How to Care for Prosthetic Teeth?

Caring for prosthetic teeth is crucial for long-term success and comfort. Here are some basic guidelines for caring for dentures:

1- Regular Brushing and Flossing:

Prosthetic teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, just like natural teeth.

Flossing is important to keep the gums around the prosthetic teeth and the areas between other teeth clean.

Specially designed toothbrushes and dental floss can help clean without damaging the prosthetic teeth.

2- Antibacterial Mouthwashes:

Antibacterial mouthwashes help reduce the formation of bacteria in the mouth and contribute to the prevention of gum disease.

3- Regular Dental Checkups:

Regular visits to the dentist are essential to check the condition of the prosthetic teeth and oral health.

The dentist can check the fit and condition of the prosthetic teeth and make adjustments as needed.

4- Using a Soft Toothbrush:

A soft-bristled toothbrush provides gentle cleaning without scratching the surface of the dentures.

5- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods:

Hard and sticky foods can damage or dislodge dentures.

Artificial teeth, especially dentures, can be more sensitive to such foods.

6- Limit Smoking and Alcohol Consumption:

Smoking and excessive alcohol use can negatively affect oral health and shorten the life of dentures.

7- Special Care for Dentures:

Removable dentures should be removed overnight and soaked in special cleaning solutions.

When cleaning dentures, care should be taken to avoid dropping them and cleaning should be done by placing a soft surface on them.

Proper care of your prosthetic teeth ensures their longevity and preserves your oral health. With regular care and visits to the dentist, you can get the most out of your dentures.