Are braces and a smile incompatible like genius and villainy? Not at all – rather the opposite, when it comes to the Incognito system. Its name is not just a beautiful Latin word, it fully corresponds to the technology: lingual, that is, hidden braces are absolutely inaccessible to the prying eye, since they are attached to the inner surface of the teeth.
The advantages of the Incognito lingual system are obvious:
maximum accuracy and structural strength;
reliable fixation;
absolutely safe materials suitable for all age groups;
short adaptation period after installation;
shorter wearing period compared to previous generation systems;
exclusion of aesthetic and physical discomfort.
Manufacturing features
The principle of manufacturing the Incognito bracket system is computer modeling of each element in accordance with the peculiarities of the structure and location of the tooth, on which it will subsequently be fixed. That is why, after bracketing, diction, if it changes, is very insignificant and recovers quickly enough.
Orthodontic rings and bows are custom designed to provide optimal tensile force and only where it is needed, so the effect becomes noticeable after a few months. For comparison, previous generations of braces required a much longer wearing period, the period of which was sometimes calculated in years.
* The risk of allergic reactions and the development of caries is minimal – for the manufacture of braces, a gold-containing alloy is used that does not contain nickel and prevents the demineralization of tooth enamel.
STAGES OF CREATING A CHARMING SMILE
The first step towards a charming smile is an orthodontist consultation. A qualified specialist will perform all the necessary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and then prescribe an effective, tailored bite correction plan for you.
Further – a matter of technology, moreover, high-precision and ultra-modern technology:
1. Silicone impression of the dentition;
This is an accurate imprint of the dentition, from which the specialist creates a working model.
2. Creation of an individual model of a bracket system using 3D computer modeling (the process is robotic, so the probability of the slightest inaccuracy is completely excluded);
3. Casting of braces in accordance with the created model and making arcs to compensate for the difference in the size of the teeth;
4. Installation of the system on the inner (lingual) surface of the dentition and fixation with the latest generation of orthodontic glue.
The Incognito Light technology has been developed especially for patients wishing to eliminate minor misalignment of the anterior teeth – just a few braces are fixed exclusively in the areas to be corrected. This method eliminates not only unnecessary stress on the teeth, but also additional costs.
Care of incognito lingual braces
Compared to conventional braces , lingual braces require additional maintenance, but this does not at all mean the need for complex manipulations. The orthodontist will certainly provide all the recommendations, which will not be difficult to follow, especially since today there is a whole arsenal of appropriate devices at the service of braces wearers: special toothbrushes, brushes, dental floss, rinses and many other useful and convenient things.
Where to install the lingual bracket system?
European quality dental care is available to Muscovites without leaving the Russian capital: you can become the owner of a luxurious smile worthy of shining from the covers of the most popular glossy magazines by contacting the FDC – French Dentistry clinic in Moscow.
Many Moscow dentistry clinics are ready to offer their patients the most modern technologies and means of dental treatment . Orthodontics was no exception. They are pleased to present such a treatment for malocclusion of teeth as self-ligating braces without ligation. Ligature-free braces can significantly increase the effectiveness of bite treatment, reducing its time by 20-25%! Today they are regarded as the most modern, effective and practical solution for correcting malocclusion.
Non-ligature braces are non-removable structures. They are attached to the teeth using a system of sliding retainers in the form of latches, latches or spring clips. This system allows you to install braces faster and easier, moreover, the pressure on the teeth is much less than when using conventional designs. Moreover, such a design significantly simplifies and speeds up the installation and fixation of braces on the teeth – your free time remains yours, and you no longer have to waste it in the dentist’s office.
A decrease in pressure, in particular, leads to a better functioning of the cellular system of soft tissues, their supply of blood and nutrients (nutrients) is not disturbed. There was no place in the design for wires (ligatures), which exert strong pressure on the teeth, which causes tissue disruption and damage. Another fundamental design difference of self-ligating braces without ligature is the use of a metal arc of a smaller radius, which also has a beneficial effect on the timing of installation and fixation of braces, the time of treatment itself and comfort in the oral cavity.
Advantages of ligature-free self-ligating bracket systems
short installation time
weak pressure on soft tissues
improvement of the periodontal condition
reduction of painful sensations
low risk of damage to mucous membranes and injury to them
impossibility of complications during treatment
simplified procedures for the care of braces
low risk of caries
visiting an orthodontist no more than once every 2–2.5 months
short time for removing the bracket.
Please also note that these advantages of braces will be complemented by the advantages of our clinic: professional individual approach to each patient, European service and quality of service. By themselves, ligature-free braces are easy to maintain and care for – even a child can handle them, not to mention an adult. Simplicity of oral hygiene reduces the risk of occurrence and development of caries, which is also seen as a serious advantage of the design.
Every self-ligating bracket system is well known to the skilled person, including Stb, Clarity SL, Ormco and Incognito. All of them allow you to reduce the time and frequency of visits to the dentist. Self-ligating braces are devices designed to reduce the time of treatment in every possible way. Less treatment time, fewer visits to the dentist. More effective treatment!
COLORED BRACES
Colored braces are almost an experimental bracket system. Why experimental? Everyone is free to choose the color of the brace to their liking, even to match the color of the shoes or the color of the flag of the football team. Colored belts are made of plastic, they are only external, or vestibular, and are considered aesthetic. Internal braces are not colored – what’s the point?
However, the list of materials used for the production of colored braces is not limited only to plastic. In addition, one model from another is often distinguished not only by the color or shade, but also by the shape of the plates themselves. Like any other braces, colored braces are selected individually by the attending physician to match the color and shape of the patient’s teeth, taking into account their condition.
Who needs colored braces? First of all, of course, for children. As a rule, their usual braces cannot be forced under the threat of being shot. And here they themselves choose, select, select. A colored brace becomes almost a favorite toy (especially if a child’s favorite image: “animals”, “cars” has got into the device). Such a device is not just worn, but worn with great pleasure.
Sometimes colored braces are the only reasonable way to make a child wear a device:
the child may be embarrassed to wear braces
he may be afraid to smile with them
finally, he doesn’t like the discomfort caused
Plus, colored braces require exactly the same care and cleaning as any other external appliance.
Colored braces are especially recommended for children . those, unlike adults, are not always able to maintain proper oral hygiene. children often refuse to wear ordinary braces, citing their reluctance to stand out among their peers and fear of ridicule. Lingual, or invisible, braces cannot be installed – they require very strict oral hygiene. The only way out is to install colored braces.
Colored braces, like any other bracket systems, require special rules for caring for the oral cavity. The problems are standard: pieces of food between the teeth, between the component parts of the braces. As for the cost of colored braces, it is intermediate between traditional metal products and more spectacular and expensive sapphire and ceramic.
Colored braces become not just a means of correcting the incorrect position and direction of teeth growth, a purely utilitarian thing, but rather an adornment, a fashionable attribute that can (and should!) Complement your appearance, complete it, emphasize attractiveness and taste. Yes, it is still a necessary element that would be better off altogether. But if you cannot avoid installing braces, then why not make them work for your appearance? Why endure psychological discomfort and catch sidelong glances on yourself when you can catch admiring and interested?
CROSS BITE
Crossbite is an anomaly in which the lower jaw is displaced to the left or right. Outwardly, this most often manifests itself in the asymmetry of the face. Distinguish between unilateral and bilateral cross bite, as well as bite in the lateral and anterior parts of the jaw. Crossbite is treatable, and we do not see anything difficult in correcting it, especially if this issue is addressed in a timely manner.
With the normal (correct) position of the teeth, the jaws close so that the upper row overlaps the lower one by about 25-30%. This is the only option that allows your teeth and jaws to function properly. Crossbite disrupts almost all physiological processes, such as chewing, swallowing, speaking, and many others. In addition, this phenomenon is not aesthetically attractive and harmful to human health.
There are several types of cross bite:
Buccal – including one-sided, two-sided and combined. It differs depending on which of the jaws is widened / narrowed.
Lingual – expansion of the upper row of teeth and narrowing of the lower one.
THE CAUSES OF CROSS BITE
For a complete and effective treatment of crossbite, it is necessary to identify the causes of its occurrence. Among many, the most frequent ones can be distinguished.
Diseases of the nose, throat (otitis media, sinusitis), which, as a result of inflammation, lead to deformation of the jaw apparatus;
Prolonged process of loss of milk teeth;
Slowing down the development of the jaw apparatus;
Incorrect teething (in the wrong places).
CONSEQUENCES OF CROSSING JAWS
If you have a cross bite, there is a high risk of serious health problems. Most of all, this is reflected in a change in the process of swallowing and chewing, a person cannot fully use the jaw apparatus for eating, which in turn leads to problems in the digestive system.
Depending on the type and stage of crossbite, the patient may experience various complications: difficulty in chewing and swallowing food, impaired respiratory function (mainly in children), improper diction, increased risk of caries, crunching and pain when opening the mouth, etc. Crossbite in advanced cases may be required to correct the prosthetics and implantation procedures.
At your service is the experience and knowledge of qualified dentists and orthopedists – specialists with extensive experience. Before proceeding with the correction of a crossbite, the attending physician will find out the cause of the bite. Most often this is a hereditary predisposition, improper teething, premature loss of milk teeth and delayed eruption of permanent ones, otitis media and a lag in the development of one of the jaws or dental arches.
CROSSBITE CORRECTION
Correction of cross bite has become a routine procedure for specialists. American and European equipment, orthodontic appliances in the hands of experienced specialists work miracles. At the stages of milk and mixed bite, even the very cause of the anomaly can be eliminated, and at the permanent stage, correction is carried out by aligning the size of the jaws relative to each other.
Crossbite correction is performed using various American and German-made orthodontic constructions: mouth guards, trainers, braces, faceplates, etc. The correction is carried out under the supervision of an orthodontist and takes a minimum of time. The treatment is completely painless.
The Orthodontics Department at FDC is one of the most qualified departments throughout Moscow. This is due to the fact that we employ world-renowned doctors such as Michel Cassagne and many others.
At the moment, several different technologies are used in orthodontics to correct the occlusion and correct aesthetic defects of the teeth. The most common among these methods are braces and aligners. Therefore, the first question that arises for a person who wants to make his teeth straight is: what should you choose – aligners or braces? You can answer this question by examining the advantages and disadvantages of both technologies.
BRACES: PROS AND CONS
Braces have long established themselves as an effective tool for eliminating bite deformities and gaining a beautiful smile. Among the advantages of this technology are:
the ability to correct almost any, even the most difficult, malocclusion without any additional devices and procedures,
stationary installation in the dentist’s office,
relatively fast achievement of the desired effect and high reliability,
short recovery period,
availability of various types of braces – relatively inexpensive metal braces, as well as comfortable ceramic and sapphire braces.
However, braces also have their drawbacks. As a rule, this is the visibility and sensation of a foreign body in the mouth. But when installing sapphire braces, where most of the structure is made of a special transparent material, this issue is not so acute. Also, in some cases, it is possible to install lingual braces behind the teeth and therefore unobtrusive . But of course, this does not negate the presence of a metal structure in the mouth, which may not suit the patient from an aesthetic point of view. In addition, braces require regular visits to the dentist to control the bite correction process, careful hygiene and the rejection of certain products. In some cases, when wearing braces, gum inflammation and impaired diction are possible.
The gold alloy does not cause allergies.
Invisible. They are fixed on the inside of the teeth.
They are made in the TOP-Service laboratory in Germany especially for you at the request of your orthodontist.
ARGUMENTS IN FAVOR OF ALIGNERS
Aligners are a modern high-tech bite correction system. It is a transparent mouthguard made to order from a special hypoallergenic thermoplastic material. They are used to displace individual teeth, eliminate enlarged interdental spaces, crowding and other disorders. Aligners have many advantages over other orthodontic systems:
high aesthetics, since aligners are absolutely transparent and virtually invisible in the mouth,
they do not cause allergies and irritation, and do not damage the tooth enamel,
no influence on diction,
convenience and lack of sensation of a foreign body in the mouth – mouthguards are made of a very thin material that quickly ceases to be felt,
individual production, taking into account the peculiarities of malocclusion in each specific case,
the ability to remove aligners,
there are no restrictions on the choice of food.
Just like any orthodontic construction, aligners require some maintenance. They must be removed while eating and brushing your teeth. Aligners should be washed periodically with warm water and a disinfectant solution provided by the manufacturer. In addition, after some time, the aligners will have to be replaced with new ones, so that the alignment of the dentition occurs gradually.
Still not sure which one to choose? Contact the specialists of the FDC clinic, they will conduct an examination and help you choose the orthodontic system that is suitable specifically for your case. The French Dental Clinic employs orthodontists certified by Invisalign , a leading manufacturer of quality aligners. The experience gained allows FDC dentists to work with even the most complex malocclusion at the highest level.
Braces can be worn at any age. Promising a new smile, a new face, and above all a better quality of life, they allow a wide range of orthodontic corrections ranging from the simplest to the most complex. In adults, orthodontics can help to improve the aesthetics of the smile, to perform prosthetics, to rehabilitate the functional occlusion or to ensure the sustainability of the dental system.
If in the past, braces were synonymous with letting go and a metallic smile, these images have given way to more aesthetic and comfortable concepts. Indeed, recent years have witnessed the evolution of conventional dental braces towards more discreet multi-attachment devices, but also the emergence of new concepts of adult orthodontic devices, favoring aesthetics such as the lingual technique and transparent aligners. Here are some examples of adult braces:
Classic dental appliances
The buccal multi-attachment concept consists of placing pins on the external face of the teeth and connecting them together by a wire, the dental arch which exerts a slight pressure on the teeth and thus helps guide their movements. The wire will be attached to the pins with ligatures. Depending on the case, the practitioner experienced in orthodontics may also choose to place rubber bands to correct the positioning of the jaws or accelerate the movement of the teeth.
The apparatus will be adjusted regularly by progressive tightening of the arcs. This will be done during visits planned initially. Respecting the schedule will therefore be essential for the smooth running of the treatment. Moreover, due to the natural modifications of the mouth, the device can over time become more mobile and require relining which consists of readjusting it to the gum by adding resin under its base without removing it.
The latest trends in dental braces
More discretion : The cliché of the metallic smile formerly associated systematically with dental appliance wearers is no longer appropriate today with innovations which tend to meet the expectations of a clientele more concerned about its image.
A patient wishing a more discreet conventional appliance can opt either for ceramic bands which will be the same shade as the teeth, or for transparent resin bands . However, the latter require more precautions because they tend to turn yellow over time (avoid coloring foods: coffee, wine, etc.). Likewise, hard foods should be avoided for ceramic pins which are more fragile than metal ones.
Ceramic housings are moreover most often associated with metal pins, more rigid and more solid, which will be placed on the non-visible teeth, in particular those at the back, so as to be able to tighten the teeth more effectively. You can also opt for a mixed fitting , namely: ceramic on the upper teeth and metal on the lower ones. This alternative will allow you to reduce additional costs.
More comfort : More discreet but also more comfortable. These days, braces are smaller and lighter. They are designed to minimize friction and create less discomfort for the patient. This is particularly the case with new concepts such as self-ligating brackets which also make it possible to facilitate and accelerate the movement of teeth. Some brands even offer tailor-made products through digital modeling.
What are the advantages of invisible removable aligners?
A resolutely discreet and aesthetic concept, removable aligners have the advantage of offering the patient a treatment that cannot be seen , since they are completely transparent. A very comfortable treatment also which excludes irritation, but also very practical since they can be removed during meals or for brushing teeth, which facilitates both their cleaning and dental hygiene. Finally, digital correction planning allows you to see the results of the treatment before you even start it .
Who are removable aligners for?
As mentioned above, the application of removable aligners is limited to certain types of malposition. This method cannot treat complex malocclusions such as the height adjustment of teeth, root movements following tooth extraction or severe rotation of cylindrical type teeth (canine, etc.), etc. In these cases, it is recommended to refer to conventional orthodontics. Where appropriate, the patient should be advised of the limitations of the treatment and of the compromises it implies in terms of results.
We call transparent dental devices invisible aligners and aligners. Lingual appliances are for their part invisible, but not transparent. This small linguistic notion having been clarified, here is the opinion of on transparent dental appliances used in orthodontic treatments for adults.
Absolute comfort
The clear braces are those that offer the most comfort to patients. If we compare them, for example, to lingual appliances which also cannot be seen, we can note the following differences:
No rings will be stuck on your teeth, since you will be wearing clear aligners, also called aligners.
You will have fewer appointments with your experienced orthodontic practitioner: Your transparent dental appliance must indeed be changed every two weeks, but your orthodontic practitioner can give you several appliances in advance, in order to space out the appointments. you. A treatment with transparent dental apparatus is therefore less restrictive for the patient in terms of his schedule and his daily life.
A dental appliance transparent does not contain metal. As a result, there is no risk of irritation or injury to your tongue, which is not the case with a conventional appliance or a lingual appliance, which is also located on the internal surface. teeth.
Brushing your teeth is made easier by removing your transparent braces .
For the same reasons, you will be able to eat normally, without worrying about food getting stuck in your rings.
An aesthetic and discreet device
One of the main reasons for the success of treatments with transparent braces is the aesthetic benefit that this brings to the patient. It is a completely transparent gutter. In addition, it is not necessary to wear it 24 hours a day, regardless of the dentition deformation to be corrected. Most patients mainly wear their transparent braces at night, and can therefore remove them during the day, especially when going out in society.
Transparent dental apparatus – The practitioner’s opinion
The clear braces are increasingly preferred by adult patients and adolescents, too concerned with their comfort and aesthetic advantage offered wearing a transparent gutter. But what about the effectiveness of these treatments?
Conclusion
It is never too late to benefit from an orthodontic correction, especially as adult dental appliances are becoming more and more discreet and leave us a certain choice as to the treatment to adopt. Making an informed choice is, however, an essential element in the success of a treatment. Only an experienced orthodontic practitioner can determine the approach best suited to your case depending on the complexity of your problem and your expectations.
Adult braces: 4 good reasons to take the plunge!
Some people are still reluctant to take the plunge and wear adult braces . It is indeed a treatment which can be long, which represents a budget which must be taken into account, and which can seem restrictive on a daily basis. Those who hesitate often still have their teenage experiences in mind. However, orthodontic treatments for adults are totally different in many ways. Here are 4 reasons why you should no longer hesitate to consult your experienced orthodontic practitioner.
Adult dental apparatus – Appropriate equipment
The adult braces are totally different from those for adolescents. They are specially designed to be adapted to the needs of adult patients, particularly in terms of discretion and comfort. You can thus opt for a lingual appliance , where the bands are placed on the internal face of the teeth instead of the external face, or for invisible aligners type Invisalign , which are completely transparent aligners. Each of these techniques have different characteristics and advantages; your practitioner experienced in orthodontics will be able to advise you which one will best suit your case, depending on the state of your teeth and the positioning defects that will need to be corrected.
Adult Braces – An Effective Treatment
Some people hesitate because they have already undergone orthodontic treatment as a teenager and it has proved ineffective. The manufacture of adult braces requires advanced technology and the use of high quality materials, patented specifically for use in orthodontics. Add to this the expertise of your experienced orthodontic practitioner, who will be able to administer the most suitable treatment, in other words, to have optimal use of adult dental appliances in order to obtain excellent results.
Adult braces – A lasting result
What is the point of having an effective treatment if your teeth regain their initial position after a few months or a few years? First of all, know that your teeth are required to move throughout your life, depending on several factors (tongue movements, growth, aging, etc.). However, again, orthodontic treatments for adults have made great strides in recent years. After wearing your adult braces to align your teeth, a stabilization and retention phase will come in order to stabilize the results obtained and avoid future unwanted displacements. These results can last for decades!
Adult braces – A manageable budget
The orthodontic treatment for adults take several months and involve a budget often reaching four digits. It is a large budget which can also contribute to making some people hesitate to “take the plunge”. However, there are several solutions to find a radiant smile while controlling your expenses. Complementary health insurance can in particular cover part of the cost of your treatment. In addition, your experienced orthodontic practitioner will be able to offer you payment facilities, by staggering these payments with monthly installments adapted to your finances. For more information on this subject.
No longer just reserved for children, orthodontics is also intended for adults and gives impressive results. Today there are different types of dental appliances, even invisible walls!
Braces: when to wear them?
When the teeth are misaligned, overlapping or lacking space, only a device can correct the shot. ” The growing interest in this discipline is mainly due to the fact that the devices are more and more discreet “, explains Professor Loreille, doctor of dental surgery, qualified specialist in dentofacial orthopedics.
Who to consult?
In the milder cases, a dentist is empowered to treat the problem but when the procedure is complex, he will refer his patient to an orthodontist .
Which device to choose?
Lingual orthodontics
Thanks to lingual orthodontics , you can’t even make out your braces! ” The device is no longer placed on the outer surface of the teeth, but on the inside ” , explains Professor Loreille. The only problem: this “invisible” orthodontic treatment is 4 to 5 times more expensive than a conventional appliance. The treatment is also of longer duration with this type of device.
Ceramic rings
Braces placed on the teeth can be made of transparent ceramic , and they do not turn yellow. Only some of the wires are still made of metal, but the whole has become almost invisible . Be careful though, these rings are often fragile , so it is imperative to be careful.
Metal rings
These traditional rings are not very popular among adults because they are not very aesthetic . And yet, this model remains one of the most efficient but also the cheapest . In addition, treatment is generally faster with this type of dental appliance.
The invisible braces
This device looks like a transparent shell that covers the teeth . Removable device, it is suitable for conscientious people because it must be worn as much as possible to correct your teething problem. Another good news is that it is 90% effective if the person is rigorous and wears it very often. Its price is comparable to other dental appliances. Be careful, it cannot correct all teething problems, discuss it with your orthodontist.
How long should you wear it?
The duration of the treatment will depend on the problem to be corrected. This can range from 6 months to two years. Then, you have to consolidate the result with a compression thread or a splint.
Living with braces
On the dental hygiene side : you will have to redouble your efforts to maintain impeccable oral hygiene . Brushing your teeth after each meal is recommended as well as the use of dental floss;
Food side : here too you have to adapt because certain foods can damage your device . This is the case with nuts, bread, apples, etc. It is advisable to reduce your consumption of products that are too sweet to avoid white spots when you remove your rings.
The cheapest form of permanent dentures is the clasp prosthesis. It belongs to the group of removable prostheses and is also called model cast prosthesis because the base and the brackets are made of metal. They are attached to the teeth with cast brackets.
Manufacture of a clasp prosthesis
1. In order to produce a clasp prosthesis, impressions must first be taken. In the dental laboratory , a model is then created. The dental technician uses this model to make an impression tray that only fits in your mouth.
2. This impression tray is used to take another impression with a more precise material. The dental technician creates a model again. The dental technician then creates your dentures on this model.
3. At a third appointment, the dentist transfers your bite situation to the models. To do this, he uses a bite template or a silicone bite registration. Now the dental technician knows exactly how your jaws stand one above the other and starts his work. He first models the removable dentures in wax. The wax model is later transferred to metal.
4. In some cases your dentist will try on the thin metal framework of the clasp denture in your mouth before the denture is finished. If everything fits well, the dental technician places the artificial teeth on the denture base.
5. Now the model cast prosthesis is tried on one last time. If the removable dentures fit well and nothing bothers you when you bite, the removable dentures can be completed.
6. You can take your new dentures with you at the last appointment .
Other variants of removable dentures
Removable dentures come in different forms . If all teeth are missing, a full denture must be made. These “third teeth” are made of plastic and lie on the gums.
When the jaws have receded, a full denture often does not hold up particularly well. This is especially a problem in the lower jaw.
If there are still teeth in the mouth, a secure hold can also be achieved in the lower jaw. The prosthesis can then be attached to the teeth and does not just lie loosely on the mucous membrane. There are different forms of partial dentures.
The interim prosthesis
The simplest prosthesis is the interim prosthesis or transition prosthesis . It is needed when multiple teeth have to be extracted .
The dental laboratory produces this type of prosthesis before the tooth is removed. It is made of plastic, artificial teeth and curved brackets. The interim denture is attached to the remaining teeth using the brackets.
Since it is made before the teeth are extracted, this restoration does not always fit perfectly. The temporary prosthesis is not a long-term solution, but is only intended to be worn for the period in which the gums and bones are healing.
After the gums and bones have healed, better quality dentures can be used.
Telescopic prosthesis or attachment prostheses
Partial dentures that are attached to teeth or implants via crowns are combined, removable dentures. They are not fixed dentures, but they offer a secure hold. The teeth next to the gaps are provided with crowns on which there are holding elements for the removable dentures.
The most important information about the treatment and costs of your dentures
When does a prosthesis make sense?
A dental prosthesis is usually used when tooth gaps are so extensive that they can no longer be closed by one or even several bridges.
Bridges are more comfortable to wear , have a better hold and are more durable. For this reason, a bridge is the preferred instrument for closing tooth gaps compared to a removable prosthesis – but only if sufficient anchoring options are available.
What types are there?
Depending on the size of the tooth gap or anchoring options, different prostheses can be considered for treatment:
Model cast prosthesis
Telescopic prosthesis
Implant-supported prosthesis
Full denture
A combined dental prosthesis that combines different elements of these variants is also possible.
Model cast prosthesis / clasp prosthesis
A model cast prosthesis is a removable partial denture that is attached to the remaining real teeth with the help of cast metal clips. The framework and the brackets of this dental prosthesis are made of a metal alloy that ensures stability. The imitation gums and teeth made of plastic are attached to it. The chewing force is ultimately transferred to the jawbone via the plastic saddles, which means that it remains stable.
The model cast prosthesis, also known as a clasp prosthesis , is the simplest of the prosthesis variants.
Telescopic prosthesis
A telescopic prosthesis is also a removable dental prosthesis that is used to close gaps between teeth. In contrast to the model cast prosthesis, anchoring by means of clamps is completely dispensed with here.
Double crowns, so-called telescopic crowns, which consist of two parts, are used to attach the prosthesis. The primary crown (inner telescope) is attached to the natural tooth and is made of metal. The secondary crown (external telescope) is incorporated into the partial denture and can then be placed on the primary crown together with the dental prosthesis. The partial denture can be removed again for daily cleaning. The partial denture can be used in the lower and upper jaw.
Implant-supported prosthesis
Implant-supported prostheses are used when you have few or no teeth of your own. The dentures can now be attached to one or more implants .
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are screwed into the jawbone like a dowel. Depending on the situation, a crown, bridge or prosthesis can then be anchored on the implant.
Full denture
A full denture, also called a removable full denture, is used for a toothless jaw. The full denture thus includes all teeth of an upper or lower jaw.
Removable dentures in the form of a full denture are usually made of a pink plastic (PMMA). Teeth made of plastic are also placed on these. A full denture is not supported by an implant or a crown . With the appropriate design of the plastic base, the prosthesis adheres to the mucous membrane through suction. You can imagine this effect like two glass plates that are stuck together by water. With sufficient saliva production, negative pressure and so-called “adhesive forces” ensure a stable and secure hold of the full denture.
Often a well-fitting prosthesis cannot be made due to the anatomical conditions in the lower jaw. In the upper jaw, however, most full dentures adhere very well.
This is how the treatment works with a denture
Dental prostheses are particularly complex to manufacture and fit and therefore always require several appointments with the dentist, in most cases at least four.
Depending on the type of prosthesis, the procedure and thus the treatment process also differ.
Treatment process for model cast prostheses
Since model cast prostheses require relatively little treatment, you can expect about 4 to 5 appointments. These appointments are not stressful for the patient.
First, impressions are taken for the prosthesis and the brackets that are to be attached to the remaining healthy teeth are prepared. After a general rehearsal with an unfinished version of the denture, the dental technician completes his work and the partial denture can be inserted.
Treatment process for a telescopic prosthesis
This variant is based on teeth that are to be newly crowned, which is why the first appointment in particular takes some time and effort. The existing teeth are ground and prepared for the crowns. During the next sessions, similar impressions and bite registrations are taken as with the model cast prosthesis.
Here, too, you will be finished after around 4 to 5 appointments.
Treatment process for implant-supported prostheses
Treatment with implant-supported dentures takes significantly longer.
The reason for this is the insertion and healing of one or more implants, which precedes the actual production of a prosthesis. The healing phase of a dental implant lasts from 3 months to half a year, depending on the situation. The actual therapy for the dental prosthesis can therefore only begin after this time.
Incidentally, unlike traditional dentures, the implant is not a health insurance benefit. Statutory health insurances do not grant the patient a subsidy towards the dentist’s costs.
Treatment process for full dentures
The duration of treatment for a full denture is similar to that of a model cast denture.
After taking impressions and registering the bite situation, the dental technician creates a preliminary variant of the third teeth. If this try-in is satisfactory, the full denture can be completed.
Removable braces make dental care easier, but may move the teeth significantly less.
Fixed braces are attached with brackets and are mainly used in permanent dentition. They work more effectively, but they can cause harm.
It should also be considered whether a correction is necessary at all.
What do removable braces do?
Removable devices are made individually based on an impression. Brackets and correction elements are attached to a plastic base and are clamped to the teeth when inserted. It is difficult to speak, but the teeth can be cleaned better than with fixed braces.
Removable braces must be checked and readjusted regularly. You can do this at home with a small key. If the appliance does not fit properly, causes pain or is damaged, you should contact your orthodontist. The braces (technically also called the active plate ) should be cleaned every day with a toothbrush and toothpaste or with cleaning tablets.
How do fixed braces work?
The core element of fixed braces are the so-called brackets . These are small metal, ceramic or plastic plates that are glued to the teeth with plastic glue. In addition, metal rings made of steel, so-called bands, are fixed on the teeth with cement. Archwires are attached to the brackets and ligaments, which release the tension necessary to move the teeth. Steel wires and nickel-titanium wires are often used. Steel wires are stiffer, but otherwise not disadvantageous. Which wires are used depends on the purpose. This does not change the duration of treatment.
As a rule, fixed appliances are attached to the outer surface of the teeth, so they are visible. Although they are invisible on the inside of the teeth, they mean more effort, more costs and longer acclimatization because the tongue bumps into them when speaking.
Who decides on the selection?
There is no binding regulation when a fixed or a loose brace should be used. Important aspects for the decision are the type and extent of the tooth position and jaw anomaly, the age and the number of permanent teeth, but also the patient’s willingness to cooperate and oral hygiene.
Fixed braces are mainly used for correction in permanent dentition – for example in the case of pronounced crowding, when teeth are to be rotated or moved over longer distances.
Removable braces can be indicated, for example, to widen dental arches, to correct a large anterior tooth spacing or to advance the lower jaw using the growth. There is no scientifically proven guideline on this.
