Teeth are fundamental, because we use them to perform basic functions (eating, laughing or speaking), but there is the possibility of losing teeth due to different factors. Even so, it is very important to recover them, both aesthetically and in terms of health. In this sense, dental prostheses are one of the most common options to recover the loss of one or more teeth.
What are dental prostheses?
Dental prostheses are a treatment to replace natural teeth with artificial ones. Thus, the purpose of dentures is to replace the teeth that have been lost. The recovery of these teeth is important for two reasons. On the one hand, to restore the chewing function of the teeth and, on the other hand, to improve dental aesthetics.
There are different types of dental prostheses, which are recommended according to the needs of each patient. In general, there are two main groups: fixed dental prostheses and removable dental prostheses.
In most cases, teeth are lost due to periodontal diseases (gingivitis or periodontitis). For this reason, it is important to have a good periodontal health before starting a dental prosthesis treatment. If the patient does not have healthy gums, there is a high probability of relapse.
Therefore, before starting with the treatment of dental prosthesis, a complete periodontal study should be carried out. If periodontal disease is detected, the patient should be treated beforehand to ensure long-term success.
Dental prosthesis treatments: CAD-CAM
One of the technologies used to perform dental prosthetic treatment is the CAD-CAM technique. This system is the latest in robotic technology used in dentistry, which helps to improve the design, especially of dental prostheses.
The CAD-CAM technique consists of designing the dental prosthesis through a computer. First, the dental piece is designed in three dimensions using software. Once this digital design has been made, the file is sent to a milling machine that will mill the dental design in a block of a specific material.
This digital technology makes it possible to scan the models of the patient’s mouth and manufacture them by means of computer-assisted mechanization, providing great precision in diagnosis and manufacturing.
Advantages of CAD-CAM technology
- More predictable treatments with less margin of error.
- Highly esthetic prostheses with a perfect seal.
- The process of creating the future piece is carried out by a digital software and milling machine.
- Longer lasting dental prostheses.
- Faster prosthesis elaboration.
- Reduction of treatment times.
- Perfect fit and good occlusion.
What are the benefits of using prostheses?
- Improves the quality of life of patients.
- It allows to recover the functionality of the mouth: the patient will be able to chew food normally.
- Correct phonetics.
- They are integrated into the physiognomy of each patient.
- They are hygienic and easy to clean.