Associates Editor's Desk

Edentulism
Treatment options for edentulism

Edentulism is a preventable condition but when it occurs there are very few treatment options available .

“Edentulism is treated by replacing the missing teeth by using Removable Partial Dentures, Fixed Partial Dentures, Implants and Complete Dentures.”

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and adjoining tissues.. However there are several disadvantages to this option. The pressure exerted by complete dentures may increase the resorption of the underlying bone. This can make chewing more difficult.

Another treatment option is dental implants.  Dental implants can replace some or all of the missing teeth with the help of fixed bridge. However, advances in dental technology offers a combination of dental implants and dental crowns. The combination of these two technologies which are designed after actual teeth and teeth roots offer results which are very similar in behavior to the natural teeth . The combination technology is one of the best options available to solve the problem of Edentulism.

Significant numbers of patients throughout the world seek treatment for edentulism. The trend toward tissue-integrated prosthesis has been a monumental step in restoring edentulous patients to function; however, this treatment can be out of reach for those who fail to qualify or those who do not have sufficient resources to afford it. In these cases, conventional dentures remain an important primary course of treatment.

Dr. Manesh Lahori
B.D.S, M.D.S, F.I.S.O.I, F.I.C.O.I
Professor & H.O.D
Dept. of Prosthodontics
K.D Dental College, Mathura, India