Prosthodontics is a dental specialty that is dedicated to replacing lost teeth, restoring the function, health, and aesthetics of the mouth.

This is done through fixed dental prosthesis, such as veneers, crowns or bridges, or removable dental prosthesis. Fixed dentures are currently the preferred solution due to their functionality and esthetics.

However, we also offer removable dentures as a temporary solution. We prioritize the analysis and discussion of the alternatives with the patient, to find the best option for his/her clinical case and expectations. Bearing in mind that removable prostheses can also offer comfort and a satisfactory quality of life.

How is a crown on an implant made?

The creation of a crown on an implant is different from creating a crown on a natural tooth. While a crown on implant does not require any wear on the oral structure, because the implant replaces the missing root and the crown replaces the entire tooth structure, the fabrication of a crown on implant requires an impression (cast) made by attaching an impression coping to the implant.

The use of temporary crowns may be necessary in clinical cases that require esthetic, functional adaptation or manipulation of the gingival tissues.

The final crown is finished in the laboratory to look like a natural tooth and is attached to the implant via an abutment with dental cement or screw. The aesthetic goal is to produce a crown that looks like a natural tooth through the gum.

Benefits of Dental Prosthetics

Dental prostheses offer aesthetic and functional benefits, and help maintain patients’ oral health by preserving the existing tooth structure.

The placement of fixed prostheses also prevents bone loss caused by missing teeth. In addition, prostheses contribute to smile harmony, facial rejuvenation, and social disinhibition.

Finally, fixed prostheses, by mimicking natural teeth, allow patients optimal chewing and speaking ability.

Am I a candidate for Crowns or Fixed Partial Dentures?

If you have teeth that are severely damaged, worn down or have already been restored and need significant changes in size, shape, alignment or color, dental crowns may be a good option.

It is important to consult a dentist to assess your situation and plan an appropriate treatment, which may include orthodontics, endodontics, periodontology, and implantology.

Crowns or fixed partial dentures on implants are the best option for cases where one or more teeth are missing or completely edentulous. However, the placement of implants requires the presence of adequate bone, and auxiliary diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan, may be necessary before treatment.

The importance of replacing lost teeth

For teeth to function properly, it is important that they are balanced in the dental arches. The loss of a single tooth can throw this system out of balance, causing the other teeth to move to compensate for the loss. This can cause functional and structural changes in the mouth, including:

• Impact on the aesthetics of the patient’s mouth and consequent problems with self-esteem and well-being;
• Loss of tooth structure, periodontal tissues and teeth;
• Decreased ability to chew and speak;
• Changes in the positioning of the teeth;

Replacing lost teeth is important to maintain oral health and avoid future problems.

How does the maintenance of Crowns and Fixed Partial Dentures work?

Crowns on natural teeth or implants should be treated like natural teeth. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist to check the crowns.

This is important to avoid problems such as decay under the crown, inflammation or infection at the crown/implant interface. Crowns are often made of ceramic, so it’s important to avoid chewing on hard things like ice or candy and to avoid parafunctional habits, such as nail or pen biting, to prevent breakage.

In some situations, it may be necessary to wear a mouth guard to protect the crowns from breaking, especially if you are in the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth.

Aesthetic appearance of dentures

In our labs, we produce prosthetics that look similar to natural teeth, with identical color, texture, shape and appearance.

The goal is to mimic the patient’s own tooth structure as much as possible. As specialists in Prosthodontics, our goal is to give the patient back a confident and harmonious smile.