Total Prostheses
The Transformative Effect of Total Prostheses on Quality of Life
Total dentures are a critical treatment option that significantly improves the quality of life of individuals in cases of complete edentulism. These prostheses offer a vital solution for patients who experience facial aesthetic deterioration, speech difficulties and eating problems due to tooth loss. This important tool of modern dentistry fulfils aesthetic and functional needs, enabling patients to rejoin their social life and fulfil their daily activities smoothly.
For whom are total dentures suitable?
Total prostheses are generally a suitable treatment method for individuals with the following conditions
- People who have lost all of their upper and lower jaw teeth.
- People who have lost teeth due to extensive tooth decay or periodontal disease.
- Those who experience impaired chewing and speech functions due to tooth loss.
Overall Summary and Positive Effects on Quality of Life
Total dentures increase the self-confidence of patients by improving the aesthetic appearance. By replacing natural teeth, they support the facial structure and prevent possible facial collapse. This allows patients to have a younger and more dynamic appearance.
Functionally, total dentures play a major role in the restoration of basic oral functions such as chewing and speech. Patients can expand their eating habits and follow a more balanced diet. In addition, the improved speech opening allows them to feel more comfortable in social interactions.
Psychological benefits are also important. Toothlessness can cause anxiety and lack of self-confidence, especially in social situations and special moments such as photo shoots. Total dentures are effective in overcoming these psychological barriers, so that patients can lead a happier and more content life.
Total dentures are not only an aesthetic solution for edentulous patients, but also a functional and psychological recovery tool. This treatment makes a significant difference in the daily lives of patients and offers them the opportunity to lead a healthier, happier life. Total dentures, as one of the most valuable restorative solutions offered by modern dentistry, continue to significantly improve the quality of life of patients.
Total Prostheses: Definition, Technical Properties and Types
Total dentures are sets of artificial teeth placed in the mouth, designed for individuals with complete edentulism. These prostheses are used both to provide an aesthetic smile and to restore basic functions such as chewing and speaking. Structurally, dentures usually consist of two main components: an acrylic base (gum-coloured) and artificial teeth integrated into this base.
Technical Properties of Total Prostheses
Material: Total dentures are made of materials that are biocompatible and resistant to oral conditions. Acrylic resin is commonly used for the gingival part of dentures, while artificial teeth are usually made of high-quality porcelain or acrylic.
Design Dentures are customised to the patient’s oral structure and aesthetic preferences. This ensures maximum comfort and a natural appearance.
Fit: Total dentures are fixed in the mouth using a vacuum effect or intraoral adhesives. A good fit is vital for the stability of the prosthesis and user comfort.
Types of Total Prostheses
Standard Total Prostheses
- It is the most common type of total prosthesis.
- They are full set prostheses designed for edentulous patients, covering the upper and lower jaws.
- The application is performed after a certain healing process after tooth extraction.
Immediate (Immediate) Prosthesis
- These are the prostheses placed immediately after tooth extraction.
- It allows patients to go through the process of tooth extraction and prosthesis application without being toothless.
- After the healing process is complete, it may be necessary to adjust or switch to a permanent prosthesis.
Progressive (Transitional) Prostheses
- These are prostheses that are adjusted over time to adapt to changes in the patient’s oral structure.
- It is usually used during the healing process after tooth extraction and provides support until the transition to the final prosthesis.
Implant Supported Total Dentures
- They are prostheses placed on implants placed in the jawbone.
- It offers higher stability and comfort than conventional prostheses.
- It is preferred to increase the stability of prostheses, especially in the lower jaw.
Each prosthesis type offers special solutions for different needs and conditions. Patients’ lifestyle, health status and aesthetic expectations are important factors in the selection of total dentures. Thanks to modern dentistry techniques and materials, total dentures can significantly improve the quality of life of edentulous patients by providing a high level of user satisfaction.
Who are Total Prostheses Suitable for?
Total dentures are the ideal treatment method for individuals who have no teeth left in the mouth or who have lost most of their existing teeth and whose remaining teeth cannot be preserved due to their health condition. These prostheses are designed both to improve aesthetic appearance and to restore basic oral functions, especially chewing and speech.
Ideal Candidates
People with complete edentulism: People who have no intact teeth left in their mouths can regain a healthy and functional mouth structure with total dentures.
Those with a Serious Periodontal Disease History: Individuals who have lost their teeth due to periodontal disease or who have a high risk of losing their teeth can get rid of the problems of toothlessness with total dentures.
Those who do not have enough bone structure to support their existing teeth: Weakness or insufficiency of the jawbone may prevent other treatment methods such as implants. In this case, total dentures offer an effective alternative.
Situations where Total Dentures are Preferred
Desire to Improve Quality of Life: Total dentures offer a suitable solution for individuals who want to improve their quality of life by improving basic functions such as aesthetic appearance, speech and chewing.
The Search for an Economical Solution: Total dentures are generally a more economical option than other restorative treatments and provide a cost-effective solution for a wide range of patients.
Those who do not want surgical intervention: Total prostheses are an ideal option for individuals who are looking for an alternative to surgical treatments such as implants or who are not suitable for surgical procedures due to their health conditions.
Total dentures can significantly improve the quality of life of edentulous individuals. However, the success of this treatment depends on the correct planning, design and the patient’s capacity to adapt to the prosthesis. A detailed evaluation and counselling process with the dentist is critical in determining the most appropriate treatment method.
Treatment Process of Total Prostheses
The application of total dentures requires individualised planning and a careful application process. The treatment process usually begins with an initial examination and assessment and is completed with the design and fitting of the prosthesis and final check-ups. This process may vary according to the patient’s oral health status and specific needs.
Initial Inspection and Assessment Stages
Patient History and Determination of Needs: Before starting treatment, the dentist examines the patient’s medical and dental history in detail. The patient’s expectations, aesthetic preferences and functional needs are evaluated.
Intraoral Examination and Measurements: The dentist takes impressions by examining the patient’s oral structure, jaw relationships and the condition of the remaining teeth. These impressions form the basis for the design of the prosthesis.
Design and Application of Prostheses
Prosthesis Design: According to the measurements taken and the patient’s aesthetic expectations, the prosthesis is designed. At this stage, aesthetic features such as the colour, shape and size of the prosthesis are focused on.
Application and Adjustments: After the prostheses are prepared in the laboratory, they are applied to the patient. During the first application, the fit and functionality of the prosthesis in the mouth are checked. Necessary adjustments are made.
Duration of the Treatment Process and Expectations of Patients
Treatment Duration: The preparation and application of total dentures can vary from a few weeks to several months. This duration depends on the complexity of the preparation stages and the number of adjustments made.
Expectations It is important for patients to be patient while getting used to the dentures and to follow the dentist’s recommendations. Initially, there may be temporary difficulties with functions such as speaking or eating, but these can be resolved over time and with the right adjustments.
Final Checks and Follow-up: After the application of the prostheses, patients should come for regular check-ups. During these checks, the fit of the prosthesis, oral hygiene and possible adjustments are evaluated.
Total prosthesis treatment is a comprehensive process that significantly improves the patient’s quality of life. The patient’s compliance with the treatment and co-operation with the dentist are critical for the success of the treatment.
Advantages of Total Prostheses and Effects on Quality of Life
Total dentures offer significant aesthetic and functional advantages for individuals with tooth loss. This treatment method creates positive effects on basic life activities such as eating, speaking and social interaction, thus providing significant improvements in the overall quality of life of patients.
Aesthetic and Functional Advantages
Natural Appearance: Modern total dentures mimic the appearance of natural teeth and support facial aesthetics. These dentures are individually designed in terms of colour, shape and arrangement, thus providing a natural smile.
Functional Improvement: Total dentures improve chewing and speech functions. Properly designed and applied prostheses allow patients to consume a variety of foods easily and speak more clearly.
Positive Effects on Eating, Speaking and Social Interaction
Increased Eating Ability: Tooth loss has negative effects on food choice and nutrition. Total dentures allow patients to consume a wide range of foods, including hard and fibrous foods.
Improvement in Speech Quality: Teeth play a critical role in the correct production of sounds during speech. Dentures improve speech quality, especially by improving the correct pronunciation of vowels.
Increased Social Confidence: An aesthetic smile and the ability to speak clearly increase the self-confidence of individuals in social interactions. This means a more active and happy participation in social life.
Expected Improvements in Quality of Life
Nutrition and Health: Better chewing function helps to adopt a more balanced and healthy diet. This, in turn, contributes to an improved general state of health.
Success in Social and Professional Life: Improved aesthetic appearance and functionality creates a favourable impression in social and professional interactions. This can create opportunities in personal and professional life.
Total dentures significantly improve the quality of life of edentulous individuals, offering them a healthier, happier and social life. This treatment method allows individuals to feel better and lead a more active life with aesthetic and functional improvements.
Care and Hygiene of Total Prostheses
Total dentures can maintain their functionality and aesthetic appearance for many years with proper care and cleaning. Proper care of dentures is vital for maintaining oral health and prolonging the life of dentures. Here are basic care and hygiene recommendations for total dentures:
Daily Maintenance and Cleaning
Daily Cleaning: Clean your dentures daily, using a soft toothbrush and a denture cleaning solution. Hard brushes or abrasive cleaning agents can scratch and damage the surface of the dentures.
Remove dentures at night: Remove your dentures while you sleep. This allows your gums to rest and the tissues in your mouth to regenerate. Store dentures in clean water or a recommended cleaning solution.
Regular Rinsing: Rinse your dentures with water after meals. This helps to remove food residues and plaque.
Long-term Use and Maintenance Recommendations
Annual Check-ups: Have your dentures checked regularly for fit and condition. Over time, your mouth structure may change and your dentures may need to be adjusted.
Denture Care Products: Use special denture cleaners. These products safely clean dentures and prevent bacterial build-up.
Damage and Repair: Avoid dropping your dentures. Cracked, broken or damaged dentures can damage oral tissues. In case of any damage, do not attempt to repair your dentures on your own and consult a dentist.
Additional Tips
Oral Health: Before wearing your dentures, clean your gums, tongue and other parts of your mouth. This helps to maintain oral health.
Moisturising: Never let your dentures dry out. Dried prostheses may change shape. Place your dentures in water or denture storage solution to keep them moist when not in use.
Proper care of total dentures is the key to maintaining your oral health and getting the most out of your dentures. Regular care and cleaning will keep your dentures like new for longer and improve your oral comfort.
Improvement in Quality of Life and Overall Satisfaction with Total Prostheses
Total dentures offer an important treatment option for edentulous patients and contribute to a significant improvement in quality of life. Successful application of this treatment can lead to significant improvements in aesthetic appearance, functionality and overall oral health. The following are key points regarding the overall satisfaction and quality of life improvements achieved with total dentures and why the treatment should be recommended to potential patients.
Aesthetic Satisfaction
Total dentures improve the facial aesthetics of edentulous patients and offer a result close to the appearance of natural teeth. This allows patients to feel more confident in social interactions and feel better overall.
Functional Improvements
Total dentures solve chewing and speech problems caused by the loss of natural teeth to a great extent. With dentures, patients can easily consume a wider range of foods and their speech quality improves. These improvements contribute to the improvement of their nutritional status and general health.
Psychological and Social Benefits
Tooth loss can negatively affect the psychological and social lives of individuals, especially in social settings. Total dentures reduce the feeling of social isolation and improve quality of life by making patients feel more comfortable in social interactions.
Freedom and Independence
Total dentures offer their wearers a great deal of freedom in daily activities such as eating, speaking and laughing. This freedom increases the capacity to enjoy life and lead an independent life.
Why Total Dentures are Recommended
Total dentures are an effective solution to complete edentulism that improves quality of life and fulfils aesthetic and functional needs. This treatment method offers a reliable alternative that can replace natural teeth and overcome the difficulties patients face in their daily lives. Total dentures can be used for many years with proper care and regular check-ups, making them an ideal treatment option for edentulous patients.
These advantages of total dentures are the main reasons for recommending the treatment to potential patients. Dentists should emphasise the potential improvements in quality of life and overall satisfaction with the treatment when recommending this treatment in accordance with patients’ needs and expectations.
