Removable dentures

If there are not enough teeth left to anchor fixed dentures, only removable dentures can be made without an implant. If anchor teeth are still present, the denture can be attached to the remaining teeth using different anchoring elements. In the simplest version, the removable denture is fixed with simple curved clasps. This type of prosthesis is called an interim prosthesis and is normally only considered a temporary prosthesis until the permanent prosthesis is made.

Cast clasps, telescopic crowns (double crowns) and attachment crowns are available as anchoring elements for permanent dentures. Sometimes combinations of anchoring elements are chosen. The advantage of cast staples is that only small overlays have to be ground into the teeth. However, the hold is not ideal when anchoring with cast staples alone. With telescopic crowns, the teeth receive crowns that are attached to the teeth. The removable dentures contain secondary crowns that fit exactly onto the primary crowns and cover them when the dentures are fitted. Attachment crowns have an anchoring element pointing towards the oral cavity, which can be circular or bar-shaped. Which anchoring elements are appropriate is decided by the dentist in collaboration with the laboratory. Removable dentures can be used to restore chewing power and an esthetic appearance. However, parts of the palate and alveolar ridge are covered, which can impair the sense of taste.