Crafting a dental prosthesis is an art - especially if it's a complete denture. The intricacies involved in the entire procedure require the maximum customisation of the denture.
Hence, it is only arbitrary that a dentist or technician must be able to overcome the problems in case they arise amidst the procedure. In contrast, the need for fixed prostheses is increasing drastically. It is important to note that removable prostheses and still relevant and will always be.
Specialising in the field is bound to give you some great results. However, not everything runs at a smooth pace, and there are always hurdles along the way. Hence, we have curated a list of five tips to help you become an expert in complete dentures.
1. High-quality impressions are an asset
An impression is the first step in the production of a dental prosthesis. The step is the most crucial since it allows the dentist to laid down a basic structure on which the teeth will stand. Lack of retention and pressure points are some of the results of poor impression quality. A precise impression forms the basis of a well-fitted denture. From the selection of tray design till the impression is set for pouring, the entire process requires incorporating small tips to help achieve good results.
Movements during the impression also help to record chewing, swallowing, and suction movements. These functional impressions coupled with bite registration record accurate occlusal dimensions.
2. Accurate model production
Model production is another crucial step guiding the work efficiency of a complete denture. Dentists often overlook essential information or trim details crucial for optimum denture function. Anatomical features are not only essential for the base design and retention, but they also help with the model's positioning in the articulator and occlusal relationship. Some most commonly overlooked regions include the retromolar region, a posterior segment of both tuber maxillae, cheek and lip bands, sulcus and linea mylohyoidea.
3. Achieving correct jaw relationship
Preliminary bite registration and impression can help achieve flawless mounting on the articulator. With the help of these 3D details, it becomes easier for the dentist to record additional registration steps individually. Since the dentist only needs to carry out minor adjustments, the step saves time as well as requires minimal expertise.
4. Occlusal height
Reduction of the occlusal height is a daunting step. However, it can be eliminated, and the need for readjustment can be minimised by taking some simple steps. Intraoral pin registration has proven successful in this regard.
Intraoral registration with an initial registration bite and assembly on the individual impression trays helps save the dentist a treatment session and allows a more precise registration.
5. Aesthetic pre-requisites
Increasing patient satisfaction is the goal of a prosthesis. However, it has to be initiated from the first step to ensure the patient is comfortable from the very beginning. Make it a point to communicate with the patient and understand their needs and wants. Determining patients' expectations will help you understand their needs and will allow you to produce the dental prosthesis subsequently.
Crafting a complete denture is not rocket science. Hence, it is a process that requires a working relationship as well as expertise in the field.
