Name of the Procedure:

Complete Denture - Maxillary (D5110) Common Name: Upper Denture Medical Term: Maxillary Complete Prosthesis

Summary

A maxillary complete denture is a removable dental prosthesis that replaces all the teeth in the upper jaw. It is custom-made to fit the patient's mouth and restore functionality and aesthetics.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the absence of all upper teeth, commonly due to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. The goal is to restore chewing ability, improve speech, and enhance the appearance of the patient's smile.

Indications

• Complete loss of upper teeth.
• Significant tooth decay or damage.
• Severe gum disease leading to tooth loss.
• Inability to use partial dentures due to remaining tooth condition.
• Patient preference for a removable prosthesis over other options.

Preparation

• A thorough dental evaluation, including X-rays and oral examination.
• Creation of dental impressions to ensure proper fit.
• Teeth extraction if necessary.

• Discussing medical history and any medications with the dentist.

  Procedure Description

  1. Initial Consultation and Impression: The dentist evaluates the oral cavity and takes impressions of the patient's mouth.
  2. Model Creation: A laboratory creates a model from the impressions, which is used to design the denture.
  3. Fitting Trials: The patient tries the denture model for fit and comfort. Adjustments are made as necessary.
  4. Final Denture Fabrication: The final denture is crafted from durable materials such as acrylic.
  5. Final Fitting and Adjustments: The patient returns for the final fitting, and adjustments are made to ensure comfort and function.
  6. Instructions: The dentist provides instructions on how to wear and care for the dentures.

Duration

• Initial impressions and consultation: Approximately 1-2 hours.
• Multiple fitting sessions: Several short sessions over a few weeks.
• Final fitting: About 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a dental clinic or outpatient dental office.

Personnel

• General Dentist or Prosthodontist
• Dental Hygienist or Assistant
• Dental Laboratory Technicians (offsite)

Risks and Complications

• Soreness or irritation in the gums.
• Difficulty in chewing or speaking initially.
• Adjustments may be needed for proper fit.
• Rarely, allergic reactions to denture materials.
• Infections or sores if not maintained properly.

Benefits

• Restoration of a functional bite.
• Improved speech.
• Enhanced aesthetic appearance of the smile.
• Better overall oral health. Patients typically notice improvements within a few days to weeks.

Recovery

• Initial adjustment period of a few weeks.
• Patients may need to eat soft foods initially.
• Regular cleaning and maintenance of the denture.
• Follow-up appointments for adjustments.
• Regular dental check-ups.

Alternatives

• Partial Dentures: Ideal if some natural teeth remain.
• Dental Implants: Permanent solution, but more invasive and costly.
• Fixed Bridges: Suitable if neighboring teeth are healthy.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may offer greater stability (implants) but come at higher cost and require surgical intervention.

Patient Experience

• Initial discomfort as the mouth adjusts to the new denture.
• Potential difficulty with chewing and speaking which typically improves over time.
• Denture adhesives may be used for better stability.
• Pain management through over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
• Regular follow-ups to ensure the fit remains comfortable and functional.