Denture Fabrication
Denture fabrication is the process of creating removable dental prostheses, known as dentures, to replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics. Dentures are custom-made appliances that are designed to fit the individual patient’s mouth and provide a comfortable and functional replacement for natural teeth.
Here are the general steps involved in the denture fabrication process:
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Initial consultation and examination: The process begins with a consultation between the patient and the dentist or prosthodontist. The dentist evaluates the patient’s oral health, takes impressions, and discusses the patient’s expectations and desired outcomes.
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Impression taking: Accurate impressions of the patient’s mouth are taken using dental impression materials. These impressions capture the shape, size, and position of the gums, remaining teeth (if any), and the overall oral cavity. These impressions serve as a mold for creating the dentures.
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Bite registration: The dentist records the relationship between the upper and lower jaws, known as the bite registration. This step helps ensure that the dentures will fit together properly and allow for proper chewing and speaking function.
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Design and fabrication: Based on the impressions and bite registration, the dental laboratory or denture technician creates a wax or plastic model of the dentures, known as the “try-in.” This try-in is used to evaluate the fit, appearance, and function of the dentures before the final fabrication.
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Trial and adjustments: The patient tries on the denture try-in, and the dentist assesses the fit, comfort, and aesthetics. Adjustments may be made to the shape, size, and position of the denture teeth, as well as the base to ensure proper fit, stability, and aesthetics.
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Final denture fabrication: After the try-in stage, any necessary adjustments are made, and the final denture is fabricated. The denture teeth are typically made from acrylic or porcelain, and the base is made from acrylic resin. The denture is custom-colored to match the patient’s natural gum color.
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Delivery and follow-up: Once the final denture is ready, it is delivered to the patient. The dentist ensures that the denture fits properly, provides instructions on how to care for and clean the denture, and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s adaptation and make any necessary adjustments.
It’s important to note that denture fabrication is a collaborative process involving both the dentist and the dental laboratory or denture technician. The dentist plays a critical role in assessing the patient’s oral health, taking impressions, and designing the denture, while the dental laboratory or technician fabricates the denture based on the provided specifications.
Regular check-ups with the dentist are essential after receiving dentures to ensure their continued fit, function, and comfort. Proper oral hygiene and care of the dentures are important to maintain oral health and extend the lifespan of the dentures.
