Clínica Prof. Machado Capelas – Medicina Dentária

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics involves the reconstruction of damaged teeth, the replacement of missing teeth or other oral structures (such as gums and bone), with the aim of restoring masticatory, phonetic, and aesthetic functions.

For rehabilitation with prosthetic solutions, a thorough study and prior planning are carried out. Often, a preparatory phase is required, during which the involvement of multiple dental specialties is essential, such as Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Periodontics, Implantology, and Restorative Dentistry.

Re-establishing a complete and well-aligned dentition is fundamental to avoid muscular, joint, and remaining tooth alterations—conditions that may progress into pathological states.

Removable Prosthesis

As the name suggests, removable dental prostheses are those that can be taken out and placed back into the mouth. Depending on the material used for the framework that supports the artificial teeth, there are two types of removable prostheses: acrylic dentures and cast (metal framework) dentures.
— Acrylic Denture
Acrylic dentures are designed to acquire the desired pigmentation in order to mimic the colour of the gums and other missing oral structures. These prostheses are indicated for individuals with few or no remaining teeth. Compared to cast (metal framework) dentures, acrylic dentures are bulkier and cover a larger area, being supported primarily by the oral mucosa.
— Cast (Metal Framework) Denture
A cast (metal framework) denture is composed of a metal base—typically made from a chrome-cobalt alloy—combined with acrylic areas in the regions where the gums need to be reproduced.

These dentures are not only more resistant and less bulky than acrylic dentures, but they are also supported both by the oral mucosa and by natural teeth. This dual support provides greater retention and, consequently, increased comfort for the user.

The use of cast dentures requires the presence of healthy teeth, as they are primarily retained by metal clasps that anchor to the natural teeth.

Fixed Prosthesis

Once placed in the mouth, a fixed dental prosthesis cannot be removed except by a dentist or stomatologist. As it is anchored to natural teeth or implants, this solution stands out for offering greater strength, stability, comfort, and aesthetics compared to removable prostheses.