FP - when, why and how to replace missing teeth Flashcards
When/ why would we replace missing teeth?
appearance
occlusal stability
function (mastication, speech)
psychological
does oral function change with a shortened dental arch?
there is sufficient adaptive capacity when at least 4 occlusal units are left, preferably in a symmetrical position
list the prosthetic replacement options
fixed pros
tooth retained
implant retained
removable pros
what are the advantages of a fixed bridge?
small prosthesis
no/ minimal mucosal coverage
good pt tolerance
not removable
what are the disadvantages of a fixed bridge?
destructive on abutment teeth
does not replace alveolar bone
difficult to maintain healthy tissues
difficult to access root canals of abutment teeth
may fracture
difficult to remove
long appts
entirely tooth borne
what is a dental bridge for?
to replace one or more teeth of functional or cosmetic importance
to prevent tooth movement and improve occlusal stability
what is an important requirement for bridges?
there must be available sufficient abutments of appropriate quality and prognosis
what is an abutment tooth?
the tooth or teeth to which the bridge is attached
what is a retainer?
component of the bridge attached to the abutment tooth
what is a pontic?
the prosthetic tooth or teeth
what is a saddle?
area of edentulous ridge over which the pontic will lie
what is the span?
space between natural teeth
what is the unit?
either a retainer or a pontic
what is the connector?
link between pontic and retainer or 2 retainers
what is the pier?
an abutment tooth standing between pontics
each pontic being firmly attached to a further abutment tooth
