8 questions of an orthodontist, or everything you wanted to know about modern dental prosthetics
Restoration of Lost Teeth: Key Aspects and Modern Methods
Dental prosthetics is a crucial process in dentistry, aimed at restoring lost teeth. The primary goal of this orthopedic treatment is not only to restore chewing function but also to enhance aesthetics and ensure proper distribution of load on the temporomandibular joints during chewing. The absence of one or more teeth can lead to deformation of the entire dental arch, which in turn can cause chewing difficulties, potentially leading to gastrointestinal and ENT problems.
Complete dental prosthetics becomes necessary in situations where teeth lose their functionality due to significant decay, reduction in number, or the presence of aesthetic flaws. Modern dental clinics offer a wide range of prosthetic options to suit different financial capabilities and clinical scenarios. To accurately assess the condition of the teeth and select the most suitable prosthetic method, a professional consultation with a dentist is essential. It is based on such a consultation that the appropriate type of prosthesis is chosen.
Orthopedic Dentistry: Importance and Significance
Orthopedic dentistry is an integral part of comprehensive dental care. Many patients view orthopedic structures, such as crowns, as the "end of the line" for a tooth, while removable dentures are often seen as a misfortune. However, this is far from the truth. In fact, for some teeth, modern orthopedic restorations mean the beginning of a new life, and removable dentures can be the only way to ensure comfort over the long term. Dr. Alexander Oliheyko from the Rudenta Clinic discusses the possibilities of modern orthopedic dentistry and the technologies available today.
What Issues Does Orthopedic Dentistry Address?
Primarily, orthopedic dentistry focuses on restoring the integrity of both individual teeth and dental arches in cases of tooth loss or decay. However, this field of dentistry deals with much more complex tasks. With the help of modern, high-precision restorations that are individually crafted for each patient, it is possible to create an ideal bite. Imagine no longer needing to exert excessive effort when chewing food. Restoring the correct bite height contributes to facial rejuvenation, wrinkle reduction, and the relief of tension in certain muscles. After all, teeth are not just for a beautiful smile and chewing but are also a crucial element of posture and the harmonious functioning of the entire body.
An incorrect bite can lead to chronic problems such as headaches, clicking in the temporomandibular joints, and muscle spasms in the neck and head. Many people are unaware that correcting the bite can drastically improve overall health and appearance. Thus, orthopedic dentistry not only treats teeth but also enhances the quality of life overall.
Modern Methods of Tooth Restoration
Today, there are many methods for restoring teeth, depending on the extent of their damage. For instance, if a tooth is affected by decay and the damage is minor, it can be restored using a light-curing filling. This is the simplest and most affordable option.
However, if decay has affected a significant portion of the tooth, using composite material as a filling may not be the best solution, as it shrinks during light curing. In such cases, it is recommended to use inlays made in a laboratory based on impressions taken from the tooth. These inlays can be made of ceramic or composite materials, providing a more reliable and durable restoration.
In cases of significant tooth damage or when endodontic treatment is necessary, such as when the nerve is affected and needs to be removed, the optimal solution is to install a crown. A crown allows the tooth to be preserved for a long time, protecting it from further decay.
Preparation for Crown Installation
Before installing crowns, certain preparatory work is required, especially if the tooth is severely damaged and affected by decay. First and foremost, the tooth and its canals must be treated, which is the task of an endodontist. After this, the orthopedic dentist continues the work.
It is important to note that crowns can be installed not only on depulped (nerve-removed) teeth but also on "live" teeth if they are in good condition. For example, in cases of significant tooth wear or bruxism (teeth grinding), teeth can be restored using orthopedic restorations, including crowns, without the need for nerve removal.
Modern Orthopedic Structures and Materials
Today, orthopedic dentistry utilizes a wide range of structures, including dental crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays. Crowns can be made from various materials, such as zirconia-based ceramics, full-ceramic crowns, and metal-ceramics. Veneers and ceramic inlays are used to restore lost tooth tissue and are cemented in place, making them a unified part of the tooth.
Bridges, while still part of a dentist's arsenal, are now viewed as a compromise solution, giving way to implants. Dental implants are undoubtedly the preferred method for replacing lost teeth, as they allow for the preservation of neighboring teeth and avoid the need for their reduction.
Implant-Supported Prosthetics and Removable Structures
Implant-supported prosthetics offer a variety of options, from single crown placement to full dental arch reconstruction. Depending on the clinical situation, the dentist may suggest various fixed and removable structures that can be supported either by natural teeth or by implants.
Removable dentures remain relevant for patients who, for various reasons, cannot undergo implant surgery. They can also be used as a temporary solution before implants are installed. In some cases, removable structures can be anchored to implants, providing additional stability and comfort.
The Role of Modern Technology in Orthopedic Dentistry
Modern equipment, including intraoral scanners, significantly simplifies the prosthetic process and increases its accuracy. These devices allow for quick and precise impressions, which are then used for modeling and manufacturing orthopedic structures. Thanks to these technologies, the process of tooth restoration becomes more precise, physiological, and aesthetic.
Criteria for Quality Orthopedic Treatment
The quality of orthopedic treatment is evaluated based on several criteria: the aesthetics of the restorations, their convenience in use, the absence of pain during treatment, and, of course, the durability of the results. The true evaluation of an orthopedic dentist's work can only be made after several years when it becomes clear how successful the treatment was and how well it has stood the test of time.
In conclusion, orthopedic dentistry plays a key role in the restoration of teeth and the improvement of patients' quality of life. Modern methods and technologies allow for high-quality results, ensuring the durability and aesthetics of restorations.
