Dental prosthetics are artificial devices used to restore the function, appearance, and structure of teeth, gums, and jaws. These prosthetic devices are custom-made to fit the unique needs of each patient and are designed to replicate the natural form and function of missing or damaged teeth.

There are various types of dental prosthetics, including:

1. Dentures: These are removable prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Dentures can be partial (replacing a few missing teeth) or complete (replacing all teeth in the upper or lower arch). They are typically made from acrylic resin and may include artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base.
2. Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials such as titanium. They are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide support for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants offer a durable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring chewing function.
3. Dental Crowns: Also known as caps, dental crowns are prosthetic covers that are placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials.
4. Dental Bridges: A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges consist of artificial teeth (pontics) attached to dental crowns or frameworks, which are cemented onto the natural teeth or implants adjacent to the gap.
5. Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to cover stains, chips, cracks, or minor misalignments, creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

Overall, dental prosthetics play a crucial role in restoring oral function, aesthetics, and confidence for individuals with missing or damaged teeth. These custom-made devices are designed to enhance the quality of life by improving chewing ability, speech clarity, and smile aesthetics.