Partial Dentures

Partial dentures, also known as removable partial dentures (RPDs), are dental prostheses used to replace one or more missing teeth in the mouth. Unlike complete dentures, which replace all teeth in an arch, partial dentures only replace some of the missing teeth while preserving the remaining natural teeth. Here's an overview of partial dentures:

1. Indications:

• Partial dentures are recommended for patients who have lost some but not all of their natural teeth in one or both dental arches.
• They are used to restore oral function, aesthetics, and support for the remaining natural teeth.
• Partial dentures are suitable for patients who are not candidates for dental implants or fixed dental bridges due to factors such as cost, medical history, or insufficient bone support.

1. Types of Partial Dentures:

• Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs): These are the most common type of partial dentures and consist of artificial teeth attached to a metal or acrylic framework that clasps onto the remaining natural teeth for support and retention.
• Flexible Partial Dentures: These are made of flexible materials such as thermoplastics or nylon and provide a more comfortable and aesthetic alternative to traditional RPDs.
• Cast Metal Partial Dentures: These RPDs feature a metal framework for added strength and durability, with acrylic or porcelain teeth attached to the framework.

1. Impression and Fabrication:

• The process of getting partial dentures begins with taking impressions (molds) of the patient's mouth to create an accurate model of the dental arches.
• The dental laboratory uses these impressions to fabricate the partial denture, customizing the size, shape, and color of the artificial teeth to match the patient's natural dentition.
• The framework of the partial denture is designed to fit around the remaining natural teeth and provide stability and retention.

1. Fitting and Adjustment:

• Once the partial denture is fabricated, it is placed in the patient's mouth and adjusted as needed to ensure proper fit, comfort, and function.
• The dentist may make adjustments to the clasps, occlusion (bite), and overall fit of the partial denture to optimize its performance and stability.
• Patients may need some time to adjust to wearing the partial denture, especially when eating or speaking, but with time and practice, most individuals adapt well to the prosthesis.

1. Care and Maintenance:

• Proper care and maintenance of partial dentures are essential for their longevity and function.
• Patients should remove the partial denture nightly for cleaning, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaner or mild soap to remove plaque, food particles, and stains.
• Regular dental check-ups are important for monitoring the fit of the partial denture, assessing the health of the remaining natural teeth, and addressing any issues or concerns.

Partial dentures offer several benefits, including improved chewing ability, speech clarity, and aesthetics, while also preventing the shifting of remaining natural teeth. They provide a cost-effective and minimally invasive solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral function and confidence. If you are considering partial dentures, it's important to consult with a qualified dentist to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs.

Root Resorption

Root resorption is a pathological process characterized by the breakdown or loss of dentin, cementum, and/or bone in the root of a tooth. It can occur as a result of various factors and may involve either external resorption, which affects the outer surface of the root, or internal resorption, which affects the pulp chamber and root canal system within the tooth.

Here are some key points about root resorption:

1. Types of Root Resorption:

• External Resorption: External resorption, also known as external inflammatory resorption, typically occurs in response to trauma, orthodontic treatment, periodontal disease, or excessive mechanical forces. It involves the breakdown of cementum and dentin on the outer surface of the root and may progress slowly over time if left untreated.
• Internal Resorption: Internal resorption, also known as internal inflammatory resorption, occurs within the pulp chamber and root canal system of the tooth. It can be caused by trauma, chronic pulp inflammation, pulpal necrosis, or excessive orthodontic forces. Internal resorption is often asymptomatic and may be detected incidentally on dental radiographs.

1. Causes of Root Resorption:

• Trauma: Dental trauma, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents, can lead to root resorption, particularly if the tooth sustains a significant impact or fracture.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic forces applied during tooth movement can sometimes lead to localized areas of root resorption, particularly in cases of prolonged or excessive force application.
• Periodontal Disease: Advanced periodontal disease or inflammation can cause destruction of the supporting structures of the tooth, leading to root resorption.
• Pulpal Pathology: Chronic pulp inflammation, pulp necrosis, or periapical infection can initiate internal resorption within the pulp chamber and root canal system.

1. Clinical Presentation:

• External resorption may present with symptoms such as tooth mobility, sensitivity to percussion or palpation, localized swelling, or changes in tooth position.
• Internal resorption is often asymptomatic and may be detected incidentally on dental radiographs during routine dental examinations.
• Severe or advanced cases of root resorption may lead to tooth fracture, pulp exposure, or loss of tooth vitality.

1. Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis of root resorption involves a comprehensive clinical examination, assessment of dental history, and evaluation of dental radiographs or imaging studies.
• Dental radiographs, including periapical radiographs or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), are essential for visualizing the extent and location of root resorption and determining appropriate treatment options.

1. Treatment:

• The treatment approach for root resorption depends on the cause, extent, and severity of the resorption.
• In cases of external resorption, treatment may involve stabilization of the tooth, elimination of causative factors (e.g., orthodontic forces), and surgical intervention to remove affected tissue and restore the root structure.
• Internal resorption may require endodontic treatment (root canal therapy) to remove necrotic tissue, disinfect the root canal system, and seal the resorptive defect with biocompatible materials.
• Severe or advanced cases of root resorption may necessitate tooth extraction followed by replacement with a dental implant, bridge, or removable prosthesis.

In summary, root resorption is a pathological process characterized by the breakdown or loss of dentin, cementum, and/or bone in the root of a tooth. It can occur due to various factors such as trauma, orthodontic treatment, periodontal disease, or pulpal pathology. Diagnosis and treatment of root resorption require a thorough evaluation and may involve stabilization of the tooth, removal of causative factors, endodontic treatment, or tooth extraction followed by replacement with a dental prosthesis. Early detection and intervention are essential for preserving tooth structure and function and preventing complications associated with root resorption.