False teeth

False teeth, also known as dentures, are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth. They are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. There are different types of dentures, but they share their common function. They replace teeth that have become loose or been lost due to bone loss.

History

The history of dentures can be traced back to around 700 BC when the Etruscans of Italy made false teeth out of human or other animal teeth. The Romans also made frequent use of false teeth, as did the Ancient Egyptians. The first porcelain dentures were made around 1770 by Alexis Duchâteau.

Types of Dentures

There are two main categories of dentures, the distinction being whether they are used to replace missing teeth on the mandibular arch or on the maxillary arch.

• Complete Dentures are worn by patients who are missing all of the teeth in a single arch—i.e., the maxillary (upper) or mandibular (lower) arch—or, more commonly, in both arches.
• Partial Dentures are for patients who are missing some of their teeth on a particular arch.

Materials

Dentures can be made of several types of materials. Acrylic resin and metal are the most common materials, with acrylic being more affordable and easier to adjust, and metal dentures being more long-lasting and less likely to break.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of dentures is important to keep them looking their best and prolong their life. This includes daily cleaning to remove food and plaque, regular check-ups with a dentist, and ensuring they are not damaged.

See Also

• Dental implants
• Dental bridge
• Oral hygiene