Until recently, people who used removable dentures had problems securing the product in the oral cavity. Modern dentistry has many ways to restore chewing functions and the beauty of a smile. The clasp prosthesis received good recommendations from specialists. It is securely fixed on supporting teeth and crowns, allowing a person to feel comfortable and confident.
Depending on the method of creation, prostheses can be precision (made in a factory) or semi-precision (made in a laboratory based on modeling casts). Products have several types of fastening, which have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Clasp design
Such support-retaining mechanisms, which are extensions from the base of the prosthesis, are most often made of metal. This allows you to chew food efficiently and painlessly. The upper clasp fastenings do not affect diction and do not dull the sensitivity of taste buds located on the palate. The design, despite its simple structure, copes with restoring the function of chewing food better than nylon or plastic counterparts.
Design with metal clasps
Due to the destructive effect of metal on enamel, it is recommended to first install abrasion-resistant crowns on the abutment teeth.
The outer part of the clasp is visible on the surface of the teeth, but if the aesthetics of a smile is important to the patient, then the front clasps can be made of invisible polymer materials.
Polymer clasps
What are implants made of?
Commercially pure titanium is most often used for the production of implants. A distinctive feature of this high-strength material is its ability to take root without problems. The titanium rod of the implant is not rejected by the body, since it is not perceived by it as a foreign body. The only contraindication for use is individual intolerance to titanium. In this case, implants are made from other materials.
Sometimes implants are made of zirconium dioxide. The advantage is that dioxide implants do not show through the gum mucosa, which sometimes happens with titanium ones. But the main disadvantage of zirconium dioxide is the poor adherence of implants to jaw tissue and the difficulty of subsequent processing of the implant rod, therefore implants made from it are not often used in dentistry.
Attachment option (lock fastening)
One of the parts of the micro-lock (attachment) is located on the teeth enclosed in metal-ceramic crowns, and the second is on the clasp prosthesis. The mechanism snaps into place and provides a secure fit.
According to the method of fastening, locks are divided into the following types:
- intra-root, which are held on root caps;
- placed inside the product;
- soldered to the surface of the implant.
Before installing the prosthesis, the specialist cleans the enamel using ultrasound. It is important to cure all pathological phenomena in the oral cavity. A mandatory step is the installation of at least four crowns on the treated and ground abutment teeth. After completing the procedures, the structure is placed on the surface of the jaw.
Lock fastenings have a number of advantages - they are practically invisible, comfortable, and last 5-7 years or more. The design is considered high-tech and requires highly qualified specialists, but is not visible to others.
There are several types of attachments:
- hinged - joint;
- labile - shifting in any plane;
- crossbar - having a small valve;
- anchor - linked by a sphere or a button;
- semi-labile - capable of moving vertically;
- beams - a thin rod between the crowns that fits into the groove on the bottom of the prosthesis.
The choice of prosthesis is made by an orthopedist, focusing on the needs of the patient. The main mechanical impact in a design with a rigid connection is transmitted to the abutment teeth taken under the crowns. In a softer version, the load is evenly distributed over the entire jaw.
According to the level of rigidity, attachments are divided into three types:
- the toughest ones are red;
- medium hard - yellow;
- soft - green.
The locking mechanism quickly weakens, and the locking elements may need to be replaced every year and a half. The cost of repairs is about 100 rubles. The orthopedist removes worn parts and immediately installs new ones.
Varieties
Clasp dentures have different fixations on the remaining teeth. They can be on clasps, on locks and on telescopic crowns. Various prosthetic fixation systems have both advantages and disadvantages, and at the moment we will tell you about both.
Clasp dentures with clasps
This design is fixed using hook-clasps, which very tightly clasp the abutment tooth. Clasps are made of metal. With their help, the denture is firmly held on the jaw and, when chewing, transfers the load to the teeth. In most cases, clasps are cast together with the frame, so this design is highly strong and durable. Clasps are selected individually in accordance with the size and shape of the teeth.
Clasp dentures with locks also have differences in cost: One-sided clasp dentures are used in the case of a one-sided lack of dentition, with contraindications for dental implantation, in the absence of the ability to produce a fixed bridge prosthesis, and in some other cases. Most professionals and professionals in the field of dentistry believe that that at present there is no candidate for clasp dental prosthetics. Now clasp dentures are managed at the appropriate level with their main tasks - the restoration of lost chewing functions and the creation of the cosmetic effect of healthy teeth.
Clasp dentures with locks
Clasp dentures with locks have a strong, lightweight bridge-like structure, which, when chewing, transfers some of the pressure to the supporting teeth. To protect and strengthen the abutment teeth, they are previously covered with metal-ceramic crowns, into which half of the lock is inserted, and the other half is placed on the abutment teeth. When installing the prosthesis, the lock snaps into place.
Locks fixed in the teeth or in the crowns of the teeth provide the highest strength of the prosthesis. In addition, they allow you to firmly fix the structure and simply remove it for repeated cleaning.
They have clasp dentures with locks and several shortcomings. One of them is the complexity of production. Currently, in dental prosthetics, this is the most high-tech design, the production of which requires the highest qualifications of a dental technician and an orthopedic doctor. In the manufacture of such a prosthesis, the highest accuracy of calculation of all parts of the structure is essential.
This leads to the second drawback - the highest price. Their effectiveness in comparison with other types of prosthetics is expressed in the comfort of wearing such a denture and comfortable eating. In addition, they are reliable and have a long service life. The cast iron frame is the main difference between the clasp type of prosthesis and the plastic one. Artificial teeth and a plastic base are fixed to this frame.
Caring for a clasp denture
Also, in each individual case, the cost of a clasp denture will depend on the type of fixation of the prosthesis to the teeth. Clasp prosthetics with locks are an order of magnitude more expensive, because in this case the total price also includes the cost of locks and metal-ceramic crowns.
Clasp dentures have a different price range: It is very comfortable, convenient and comfortable from the mental side. All you need to do is remove the prosthesis often and do ordinary hygiene procedures. Take care of your own clasp denture, then you will never complain about the appearance of stomatitis, changes in speech and discomfort when chewing.
Price of clasp prosthetics
Nowadays, one of the most popular types of dental prosthetics is clasp prosthetics, the price of which depends on different clinical situations. There are ordinary and complex clasp dentures. Complex clasps have a system of clasps; they may have not one, but two iron arcs.
The next difference is the cost. The cost of installing clasp dentures is determined by many reasons. Before creating and installing a partial denture, the dentist prepares the oral cavity: cures the teeth, removes plaque, replaces the supporting teeth with crowns and takes impressions of the teeth. These works should be taken into account; otherwise, the expected cost of prosthetics may actually turn out to be significantly higher.
The clasp denture completely complements the dentition. But artificial teeth, just like natural teeth, require careful care. Caring for a clasp denture is not difficult; you don’t even have to take it off at night.
- conventional clasp prosthesis – from fifteen thousand rubles.
- complex clasp prosthesis – from 20 thousand rubles.
- clasp splinting prosthesis – from 20 thousand rubles.
Thus, clasp dentures with clasps are a good option for dental prosthetics, which has only one drawback - low aesthetics. When you grin, iron hooks may be visible in your mouth. But this applies only to individual cases when installing a prosthesis using another method is simply clinically impossible. It should be noted that the price of this type of prosthesis is higher compared to its plastic counterparts.
- regular clasp prosthesis – from 50 thousand rubles. (with all this, the price already includes the cost of the prosthesis, locks and 4 crowns);
- one-sided clasp prosthesis – from 30 to 5 thousand rubles. (with all this, the price already includes the cost of the prosthesis, 2 crowns and locks).
On telescopic crowns
This method of prosthetics is very common abroad. The supporting teeth are ground down, then metal caps are attached to them using cement. Two crowns are placed on the prosthesis frame. When put on, they are inserted on top of the caps.
The design is invisible during a conversation, evenly distributes the chewing load and is well fixed. This is the most expensive design to install.
What is a dental implant?
This is a device fixed into the bone tissue of the jaw and replaces a fallen or initially missing tooth. Dental implants support crowns, bridges of various lengths, removable and fixed dentures.
Several types of implants are used in dentistry, but the most widespread are root-shaped implants. These are structures consisting of a metal rod implanted into the jaw tissue and an abutment - an artificial tooth that is ground into a crown. If necessary, a gum former is installed on the implant shaft - a special metal screw with a cap. It is attached to the implant before installing the abutment and forms the gum relief to achieve an aesthetic result.
Root-shaped implants are cylindrical and screw with thread. The latter are more common, since due to the thread, the implant fuses more firmly with the jaw tissue.
Indications and contraindications for installation
The possibility of installing a clasp is determined during a dental examination. Removable dentures are used in the following cases:
- some molars are missing;
- it is necessary to hide multiple dental defects;
- The patient has been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease;
- prominent maxillary cusps;
- flat sky;
- pathological weakness of gum capillaries;
- broken bite;
- atrophy of the alveolar processes;
- there is no possibility to install a fixed prosthesis, for example, due to severe inclination of the teeth;
- bruxism (teeth grinding);
- enamel wear is observed;
- it is necessary to restore the aesthetics of the anterior dentition.
The peculiarities of the clasps do not allow them to be installed on damaged abutment teeth affected by caries. There are other contraindications:
- small lingual-buccal space;
- inflammatory process in the area of the roots of supporting teeth;
- periodontitis;
- Lowered crowns were previously installed.
Types of prostheses
There are several types of prostheses, which differ in their design components. Each type of product has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Clasp prosthesis
The design can have a variety of shapes that correspond to the defect in the dentition. A metal arch connects the base of artificial crowns and fixing elements. The latter are often played by clasps - metal hooks. This clasp is reliable, fully restores function, does not cause complications, and has a long service life. The downside is the lack of aesthetics - in the smile area, the hooks can be noticeable.
- Acrylic prosthesis
The product has a base made of acrylic plastic. The advantages of the design include affordable cost, good strength, simple manufacturing and maintenance processes. The disadvantage of plastic is the rigidity of the material, which you need to get used to, as well as the risk of developing allergies.
- Acree Free prosthesis
A modern clasp made from a new material is called Acree frie. The material does not contain acrylic, therefore it is more biocompatible and hypoallergenic. This base is quite durable, aesthetic and comfortable.
- Nylon dentures
The products are distinguished by the manufacture of a base made of nylon - a soft, elastic, elastic material. Comfortable to use, easy to put on and take off, and look beautiful. Their disadvantage is the need for special cleaning; their service life is only 3-5 years.
Subtleties of care
In order to extend the service life of a clasp prosthesis with locks, it is necessary to comply with the conditions of its operation. It is enough to follow simple rules:
- After each meal, rinse the structure with clean boiled water.
- Clean the denture twice a day using a toothbrush and paste, as well as a special antiseptic solution.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and preventive examinations.
- Avoid too hot food and drinks, chemical and mechanical effects on the prosthesis.
- If necessary, make timely repairs and corrections.
Caring for clasp dentures
The process of getting used to the clasp design takes about 2-3 days. Initially, the patient may feel slight discomfort during communication, which is quickly eliminated with the help of special exercises. You may also have difficulty chewing food. That is why experts recommend dividing food into small portions at the initial stages. It is advisable to avoid products that are too hard and sticky. To get used to the prosthesis faster, it is not recommended to remove it while sleeping at night.
In the morning and evening, the structure should be removed from the oral cavity, thoroughly cleaned using special compounds, and also placed in an antiseptic solution. To store the clasp, it is recommended to use a special container, without water.
Leading manufacturers and cost
One of the best laboratories specializing in the manufacture of clasps is AlvaDent. The company is located on the territory of the Russian Federation; Swiss equipment is used for production, guaranteeing product quality.
Ball-shaped fasteners used for fixing clasp dentures on attachments are produced by the Italian concern Rhein-83 and the German company Bredent.
The company CENDRES & METAUX SA DENTAL, located in Switzerland, produces hinged and locking fasteners. An improved locking system was developed here, including 6 types of lock mechanism matrix and one patrix. From this organization you can order semi-labile, labile, beam and rigid spherical attachments.
The price of clasp dentures starts from 45 thousand rubles and depends on the type of product being installed, the clinic and the condition of the patient’s teeth.
Manufacturing stages
Prosthetics consists of the following stages:
- Examination and examination of the patient;
- Making a diagnosis, selecting an orthopedic design;
- Preparation of the oral cavity – professional cleaning, sanitation;
- Taking dental impressions;
- Manufacturing of structures in a dental laboratory;
- Trying on a clasp, choosing a fixation method, teeth color;
- Fixation of the finished product;
- Advice and recommendations for the patient.
Alternative options
Most orthopedists consider clasp dentures to be the optimal way to restore dentition. But at the request of the patient or existing indications, an alternative may be offered.
Nylon constructions or Acry-Free dentures:
Conditionally removable dentures fixed on several implants:
Survival and service life of implants
The healing time of implants is: on the upper jaw - from 6 months, on the lower jaw - from 3 months. Much here depends on the age of the patient, the quality of his bone tissue and the experience of the doctor installing the implants. But, if the implant is successfully implanted, it is almost impossible to remove it from the jaw.
A well-established implant will serve you for at least thirty years. If you follow your doctor's recommendations, the implant will last a lifetime. This refers to the part of the implant that is placed into the gum, the plate and abutment. The crown placed on the implant will have to be replaced, but it will last 10-15, or even 20 years.
User reviews
Most patient reviews about clasp dentures are positive. But the quality of product installation always depends on the qualifications of the specialist.
I lost several teeth, and the clinic offered to install a denture with attachments. I was pleased with the result. Artificial teeth not only look great, but also do not cause discomfort.
Svetlana, 43 years old
I’ve been using a clasp prosthesis for three years and don’t take it off at night. The design is lightweight, with durable fastening. I was worried about the condition of the enamel, but there were no problems.
Mikhail, 52 years old
During the treatment of periodontal disease, I lost many teeth.
To return a beautiful smile, I decided to install a prosthesis. It was a little confusing that it was necessary to put crowns on healthy teeth, but the result is worth it. Elvira, 38 years old
What is clasp prosthetics?
The main feature of products of this type is the presence of a metal frame in the design, which connects a plastic base that imitates gums and artificial teeth.
A thin arc made of a special steel alloy has many advantages over a massive plastic jumper. It takes up less space in the mouth and increases the strength and reliability of the product. The likelihood of breakage of a removable clasp denture is minimal, since the rigid cast frame can withstand even high loads.
These products are more physiological for the oral cavity: when chewing, they load not only the gums, but also the teeth, as well as the jaw bone. This prevents the development of atrophic processes, which are inevitable when wearing flexible plastic structures of the new generation.
Implant rejection
If in the first days after implantation you began to experience severe, unstoppable bleeding, the gums around the implant became very swollen and inflamed, and there was acute pain that did not go away even with painkillers, then you may have experienced implant rejection. You need to see a doctor urgently. At the same time, the norm is swelling, bleeding of the gums and aching pain during the first two to three days after implantation. If these symptoms last longer, then this may also be a sign of implant rejection.
In addition, sometimes implant rejection occurs without any symptoms. If, in the subsequent period after installation of the implant, inflammation, swelling, or pain appear around it, these may be signs of infection. If measures are not taken in time, the jaw bone will become inflamed, which will also lead to the loss of the implant.
Nowadays, the survival rate of implants is 95-97%. However, the dentist should warn patients about the possibility of implant failure. He still has to study the patient's medical record to find out if he has any contraindications to installing the implant. Such contraindications most often become the cause of rejection.
Refusal of postoperative and preventive medical supervision, heavy load on the implant in the first days after installation, smoking and poor oral hygiene also cause implant rejection.
Disadvantages of the implantation method
We found that the implantation method has virtually no disadvantages, except for contraindications in some patients. The only drawback is the high cost of implants.
Advantages and disadvantages of implants
If no contraindications are identified, then dentists advocate implantation. The only people against implants are doctors who do not have sufficient qualifications to perform such operations and recommend the installation of a removable prosthesis in their own interests, and not in the interests of the patient.
After all, the undeniable advantages of implantation are the restoration of the functions of a lost tooth, the prevention of deformation of bone tissue and facial features, and the absence of the need to grind adjacent teeth.
For many, the rather high price can be an obstacle to installing implants. But implantation pays off in the future, because as stated above, I install implants for almost my entire life.
