What is a Mobile Prosthesis?

A mobile denture, also known as a removable denture, is a dental appliance designed to replace missing teeth and is intended to be removed and replaced by the patient. These prostheses can be partial or complete, depending on the number of teeth to be replaced. Partial dentures are used when the patient still has some of their natural teeth, while full dentures are needed when all of the teeth in one jaw are missing.

Mobile dentures not only help restore the aesthetics of the smile, but they are also crucial for functionality, allowing the patient to chew effectively and speak clearly. They also play an important role in preventing additional dental problems, such as shifting remaining teeth and bone loss in the jaw.

How is a Mobile Prosthesis applied?

The application of a mobile prosthesis is done in several stages:

Assessment and Planning: The dentist assesses the patient’s oral health, discusses available options and creates a treatment plan. This may include x-rays or dental impressions to understand the structure of the jaw and the alignment of the remaining teeth.

Preparation: Depending on the type of denture, some preparation may be necessary, such as extracting damaged teeth or treating existing gum disease. For partial dentures, brackets may be placed on the remaining natural teeth to help secure the denture.

Manufacturing of the Prosthesis: From the impressions taken, a dental laboratory manufactures the prosthesis so that it adapts precisely to the patient’s mouth. This may take several weeks.

Trial and Adjustment: Once the prosthesis is made, the patient returns for a trial. The dentist adjusts the denture to ensure a comfortable and functional fit.

Instructions and Care: The dentist provides instructions on how to place and remove the denture, as well as home care, including cleaning the denture and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Follow-up: Follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure that the prosthesis remains comfortable and functional. Adjustments may be necessary over time to accommodate changes in the patient’s mouth.

Types and Types of Mobile Prostheses

Mobile dentures come in several types, each designed to meet specific needs based on the number of missing teeth and the patient’s general oral health:

Removable Partial Dentures: Used to replace one or more missing teeth when some natural teeth remain. They can be attached to natural teeth with metal brackets or more discreet brackets.

Complete Dentures: Intended for patients who have lost all their teeth in one or both jaws. They rest directly on the gums and can be stabilized with dental glue if necessary.

Transitional or Immediate Dentures: Made before the extraction of the remaining teeth and placed immediately afterwards, allowing the patient not to be toothless during the healing period. They often require adjustments after the gums have completely healed.

Implant Supported Dentures: These partial or complete dentures are supported by dental implants, providing better stability compared to traditional dentures.

How is the support for the mobile prosthesis carried out?

Caring for a mobile prosthesis includes several important steps to ensure its comfort, functionality and longevity:

Adaptation: The initial adaptation period may require adjustments by the dentist to improve comfort and fit.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, including regular cleaning of the gums, tongue and palate.

Denture Care: It is crucial to follow specific instructions for cleaning and maintaining the denture.

Regular Visits to the Dentist: Regular check-ups ensure that the prosthesis is working properly and make adjustments or repairs if necessary.

How is the Mobile Prosthesis cleaned?

Regular cleaning of the mobile prosthesis is essential to eliminate food deposits and bacterial plaque, and to prevent odors and infections:

Remove and Rinse: Remove the denture after each meal to rinse it under running water to remove food particles.

Daily Brushing: Use a soft toothbrush or brush specially designed for dentures, with mild soap or denture cleaner, to clean the denture at least once a day.

Overnight Soaking: Most dentures need to be kept moist to maintain their shape. Use denture soaking solution or water to soak them overnight.

Avoid Certain Products: Do not use regular toothpaste, bleach or abrasive cleaners which can damage the dentures.

The Use of the Mobile Prosthesis and the Adaptation Process

Using a mobile prosthesis requires an adjustment period during which the patient becomes accustomed to the feel, functionality and maintenance of the device. This process may include:

Adjusting to Feel: Initially, the prosthesis may feel strange or uncomfortable. Over time, the mouth adapts to the feel of the appliance.

Speech Learning: Some sounds may be difficult to pronounce at first. Speaking practice and reading aloud can help speed up adaptation.

Adaptation to Chewing: Start with soft foods and gradually progress to harder foods as you get used to chewing with the denture.

Daily Care: Learn and apply good practices for cleaning and maintaining the prosthesis.

Who is Mobile Prosthesis Treatment for?

Mobile prosthesis treatment is aimed at different groups of patients:

Partially Edentulous Patients: Those who have lost one or more teeth but still have sufficient healthy natural teeth may benefit from removable partial dentures.

Completely Edentulous Patients: Individuals who have lost all their teeth in one or both jaws can regain the functionality and aesthetics of their smile with complete dentures.

Patients Waiting for Implants: Immediate or transitional dentures can serve as a temporary solution while waiting for dental implants to be placed.

The Differences Between a Mobile Prosthesis and a Fixed Prosthesis

Mobile prostheses and fixed prostheses differ in design, functionality and method of fixation:

Design and Fixing:

Mobile Dentures: Designed to be easily removed by the patient for cleaning and while sleeping. They rest on the gums or are attached to the remaining teeth by brackets.

Fixed Dentures: Like bridges or crowns, these are permanently attached to the remaining teeth or implants, only being removed by a professional.

Functionality and Comfort:

Fixed dentures generally provide a more natural feel and greater stability when chewing and speaking.

Mobile dentures may require a longer adaptation period and may be associated with some initial instability or discomfort.

Maintenance and Hygiene:

Mobile dentures require regular removal for thorough cleaning.

Fixed dentures require good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, but are not removed for cleaning.

What Should Be Considered When Choosing a Mobile Prosthesis

When choosing a mobile prosthesis, several factors must be considered to ensure comfort, functionality and patient satisfaction:

Clinical Need: Assess the number of missing teeth and the general health of the mouth to determine the most suitable type of denture (partial or complete).

Comfort and Adaptability: Consider the ease of adaptation to the denture, how it feels in the mouth, and how it affects speaking and chewing.

Aesthetics: The appearance of the denture, including the color and shape of the teeth, is important for self-esteem and the overall appearance of the smile.

Materials: Dentures can be made from different materials. Discuss the options and benefits of each material with the dentist.

Maintenance: Understand the cleaning and maintenance needs to keep the denture clean and functional.

Cost and Insurance: Take into account the cost of the prosthesis and any insurance coverage or financing options available.

User Reviews and Comments on the Mobile Prosthesis

User reviews of mobile prosthetics vary widely, reflecting personal experiences with fit, comfort and satisfaction:

Positives: Many users report significant improvement in quality of life, including the ability to eat a variety of foods, improved smile aesthetics, and an increase in self-confidence.

Challenges: Some users may experience adjustment difficulties, such as an initial feeling of discomfort, problems speaking or chewing, and the need for frequent adjustments.

User Tips: Comments often include the importance of following maintenance instructions, staying in close communication with your dentist for adjustments, and being patient during the adjustment period.

Mobile Prosthetics Prices 2024

In 2024, the cost of mobile prostheses can vary considerably depending on the type of prosthesis, the materials used, and the complexity of the patient’s case. Here is a general price estimate:

Removable Partial Dentures: Can cost from 300 to 1,500 euros, depending on the number of teeth to be replaced and the material chosen.

Complete Dentures: The price varies from 800 to 3,000 euros for a high quality complete denture.