Treatment of Jaw Joint Disorders

Dental health and aesthetics are important factors that directly affect the quality of life. However, teeth lost for various reasons can negatively impact these interactions. At this point, dental prostheses can help restore your smile by providing both aesthetic and functional solutions. These prostheses replace missing teeth, improving basic functions such as chewing and speaking, as well as providing an aesthetic appearance. Particularly preferred in cases of partial tooth loss, clasped dentures come to the forefront as a solution.

Overview of Clasped Dentures

A dental prosthesis is an artificial tooth that replaces missing teeth and helps restore the normal functions of the mouth. These prostheses are used to improve the aesthetic appearance and support functions such as chewing and speaking. Clasped dentures are a subtype of partial removable dentures and are generally used in cases where several teeth are missing. This type of prosthesis is attached to the remaining healthy teeth with the help of metal clasps. The clasps keep the prosthesis stable in the mouth and prevent it from slipping or falling during use. The advantages of clasped dentures are as follows:

• Preservation of Natural Teeth: Clasped dentures do not damage the teeth they use for support and help preserve natural teeth.
• Adjustability: They have the ability to adapt to changes that may occur in the mouth structure over time.
• Aesthetics: They provide an aesthetic appearance as they are made using materials similar to natural teeth.
• Chewing Ability: Tooth loss can negatively affect the ability to chew. Clasped dentures help improve chewing function by filling the space of missing teeth.
• Speech: Teeth play an important role during speech. Missing teeth can lead to speech disorders. Clasped dentures are effective in resolving this issue.

Reasons for Choosing Clasped Dentures

The suitability of clasped dentures is determined through a series of evaluations and examinations. The dentist assesses both the missing teeth and the health condition of the remaining teeth. This phase also includes the health of the intraoral structures and gums. An X-ray may be taken to obtain detailed images of the mouth structure and jawbone. The patient’s medical history and current health status are also important factors in the suitability assessment. Some systemic diseases or medications may affect the choice of prosthesis and the treatment plan. Subsequently, the patient’s personal needs, such as chewing ability, speech, and aesthetic expectations, are evaluated.

Once it is determined that the patient is suitable for this treatment, the dentist will decide on the most appropriate type of prosthesis, material, and design together with the patient. These prostheses can significantly improve both chewing and speaking ability by replacing missing teeth.

Issues such as being unable to chew properly or having difficulty speaking can directly affect daily life quality. Clasped dentures restore these basic functions, allowing patients to lead a more comfortable life. Clasped dentures can be designed to harmonize with natural teeth and, thanks to modern dentistry techniques, can become almost indistinguishable from real teeth. This makes the smile more aesthetic and increases the person’s self-confidence.

The Application Process of Clasped Dentures

After the evaluation, the dentist prepares a treatment plan that suits the patient’s needs and expectations. This plan includes the type, design, and material of the prosthesis. It also determines whether any preliminary treatment is needed for the teeth that will support the prosthesis.

Once it is decided to go with a clasped denture, precise measurements of the patient’s mouth are taken. These measurements are sent to the laboratory where the prosthesis will be produced. The laboratory works on a model that will fit the patient’s mouth. This model shows what the structure of the prosthesis will be like. When the first version of the prosthesis is ready, it is applied to the patient for trial purposes. This stage is important to evaluate the suitability, comfort, and aesthetics of the prosthesis. Adjustments are made if necessary. Once it is ensured that the final version of the prosthesis fits perfectly in the patient’s mouth, it is placed. The proper fitting and functionality of the prosthesis are checked. The patient is informed about the use and care of the prosthesis. It is recommended that the patient comes in for a check-up within a few weeks after the prosthesis is placed. These visits are important to check for any problems, make additional adjustments if necessary, and help the patient get used to the prosthesis.

For more information about clasped dentures and to find out the best solution for you, please contact us.