Prosthodontic Treatment İstanbul
What is prosthodontic treatment?
Prosthodontic treatment is the branch of dentistry that restores the function and appearance of teeth lost due to decay, trauma or other causes, using artificial dental structures. It ranges from covering a single tooth to rehabilitating an entire arch with dentures.
This page covers prosthetic options for replacing missing teeth (bridges, removable dentures, implant-supported prostheses). Purely cosmetic crown and veneer options for intact teeth (zirconia, porcelain, e-max, laminate) are covered separately.
What types of dental prostheses are there?
Fixed prostheses
These cannot be removed by the patient and are anchored to adjacent teeth or implants.
- Crown: Fully covers a single tooth that has had root canal treatment, significant loss of structure, or fracture.
- Bridge: Replaces one or more missing teeth using adjacent teeth as support.
- Implant-supported fixed prosthesis: Crowns or bridges fixed onto implants placed via implant treatment; adjacent teeth do not need to be reduced.
Removable prostheses
These can be taken out and reinserted by the patient.
- Complete denture: A removable prosthesis covering the entire arch when no natural teeth remain.
- Partial denture: Completes missing teeth using a metal or flexible framework while natural teeth remain.
- Implant-supported removable denture: Attached to a few implants with retention clips; more stable than a conventional complete denture while still removable.
Fixed or removable — which should be chosen?
The choice depends on the number of remaining teeth, suitability of the jawbone for implants, general health and budget. Fixed prostheses generally feel more natural, while removable prostheses require less surgery and can be used for more extensive tooth loss. The final recommendation is made by the dentist after examination and radiographic assessment.
Who is prosthodontic treatment suitable for?
Prosthodontic treatment may be considered when:
- One or more teeth are missing
- A root-canal-treated tooth with major structural loss needs reinforcement
- Teeth are broken due to decay or trauma
- All teeth in an arch are missing
- An existing denture is ill-fitting or worn
Gum and bone health directly affect prosthetic planning; periodontal treatment is completed first if needed.
How does the prosthodontic treatment process work?
1. Examination and assessment
An oral exam and imaging (panoramic or CT) evaluate the number of missing teeth, bone condition and the health of adjacent teeth.
2. Treatment planning
Fixed, removable or implant-supported options are explained and the most suitable plan is agreed together.
3. Impressions or digital scanning
An impression is taken, or a digital scanner is used, to manufacture the prosthesis.
4. Temporary prosthesis
A temporary prosthesis may be used to maintain appearance and function while the final one is prepared.
5. Try-in and delivery of the final prosthesis
The lab-made prosthesis is tried in the mouth, adjusted as needed, then permanently fitted.
6. Follow-up and maintenance
Fit and oral health are checked at regular intervals.
How should dentures be cared for?
Fixed prostheses need regular brushing and flossing/interdental brushing like natural teeth. Removable dentures should be taken out and cleaned daily, soaked in an appropriate cleaning solution as advised. Regular dental check-ups help protect both the prosthesis and the supporting tissues.
Prosthodontic treatment at Dentapolitan
At Dentapolitan, the prosthodontic treatment plan is personalised after examination, imaging and doctor assessment. Cases range from a single missing tooth to full-arch rehabilitation and may be planned together with implant treatment and oral and maxillofacial surgery when needed. Dentapolitan serves patients at its Istanbul clinics in Ümraniye and Pendik.
This content is provided for general health information purposes and does not replace an examination, diagnosis or personalised prosthodontic treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is prosthodontic dental treatment?
It restores the function and appearance of missing or severely damaged teeth using fixed or removable artificial dental structures.
What is the difference between a bridge and an implant-supported prosthesis?
A bridge is supported by adjacent teeth; an implant-supported prosthesis is supported by implants placed in the jawbone, so adjacent teeth do not need to be reduced.
What is the difference between a complete and a partial denture?
A complete denture is used when no natural teeth remain in the arch. A partial denture completes missing teeth while some natural teeth remain.
How does a removable denture stay in place?
Complete dentures rely on suction/adhesion to the gum and palate; partial dentures attach to remaining teeth with clasps. Implant-supported dentures gain retention from the implants.
Is wearing a denture painful?
Pressure and mild sensitivity can occur in the first days. If discomfort persists, the dentist can adjust the prosthesis.
How long does it take to get used to a new prosthesis?
Adaptation time varies by person; speaking and chewing comfort typically improve within a few weeks.
Does a prosthesis make eating harder?
Some foods may be harder to manage at first. Chewing comfort generally improves over time with small, gradual portions.
Does a prosthesis affect speech?
Complete dentures covering the palate may cause slight pronunciation changes initially; adaptation is usually seen within a short period.
Should dentures be worn at night?
Most removable prostheses are recommended to be removed at night and soaked in a cleaning solution. The exact recommendation depends on the prosthesis type and is given by the dentist.
How long does a prosthesis last?
This depends on the material, oral conditions and care. Renewal may be needed over time due to wear or changes in the jawbone.
Can patients with gum disease receive a prosthesis?
Treating active gum disease before prosthetic planning is recommended, as it supports the long-term success of the prosthesis.
Is tooth extraction needed before a prosthesis?
Teeth that cannot be saved may need extraction. This is decided after examination and radiographic assessment.
What should be done if a prosthesis breaks?
Do not attempt to repair it yourself; contact the clinic as soon as possible. Most fractures can be repaired; some cases require a new prosthesis.
Does the prosthesis colour match natural teeth?
Prosthetic teeth are selected based on the patient's existing tooth colour and facial features, aiming for a natural appearance.
What determines the cost difference between implant-supported and conventional prostheses?
The number of implants, the type of prosthesis (fixed/removable) and any additional surgery needed (such as bone grafting) are the main cost factors. The exact fee is determined after examination.
Do denture wearers need regular check-ups?
Yes. The fit of the prosthesis and the health of the gums and remaining teeth should be checked at regular intervals.
Can an old or ill-fitting denture be renewed?
Yes. Since bone structure can change over time, old dentures may loosen; a new impression or a new prosthesis can restore fit.
What options are considered when all teeth are missing?
A conventional complete denture or an implant-supported fixed/removable prosthesis may be considered. Suitability depends on jawbone condition.