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Fixed vs. Removable Prostheses
Patients may fail to consider that there is a lot of "hardware" in prosthetic restorations, especially those supported by implant dentistry. Some are difficult to clean and maintain. You should know what you are up against from the beginning and be prepared for the personal commitment to do what is necessary for the preservation of your dental health.
Non-removable restorations customarily offer patients a better sense of having a permanent tooth replacement. They are harder to clean, somewhat more prone to recurrent dental disease, and more difficult to repair or modify. Patients who opt for fixed prosthodontics dentistry must therefore assume a dedicated role in the maintenance of their oral health through scrupulous hygiene practices and regular dental visits.
Removable restorations are much easier to clean and to service. They may not be as stable as a non-removable restoration, and often require longer adjustment periods. They are generally easier to fabricate and they are less costly than non-removable restorations. In some cases, they afford better support of the soft tissues of the mouth.
Removable partial dentures can be constructed faster and less expensively than fixed (non-removable) or dental implants. They may be supported by natural teeth and soft tissue. Unfortunately, partial dentures are likely to damage the remaining teeth used for support, whereas a fixed implant can restore the missing support that will help protect the remaining teeth.
Complete (removable) dentures are the least stable of dental restorations, easily loosened and often the cause of irritation and embarrassment. Dentures also cause further bone loss. There are many dental implant options that should be explored as alternatives to full dentures.
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