Name of the Procedure:

Complete Denture - Mandibular (D5120) Common Name: Lower Denture, Full Lower Denture
Technical Term: Mandibular Complete Denture

Summary

A Complete Denture - Mandibular is a full set of prosthetic teeth designed to fit the lower jaw. This type of denture replaces all the natural teeth in the mandible (lower jaw), allowing for improved function and aesthetics for patients who have lost their lower teeth.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the absence of all natural teeth in the lower jaw. The goals of the procedure include restoring normal function for eating and speaking, as well as providing a natural-looking smile to improve self-confidence and appearance.

Indications

• Complete loss of natural teeth in the lower jaw due to various reasons, such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, or trauma.
• Patients who are unable to have dental implants or other dental restoration methods.
• Significant loss of chewing function and speech issues due to the absence of lower teeth.

Preparation

• Initial assessment by a dentist or prosthodontist to evaluate oral health and determine suitability for dentures.
• Dental impressions of the mouth to create a customized denture.
• Adjustments to current medications, if necessary.
• No specific fasting or pre-procedure fasting required.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Impressions: A preliminary mold of the patient's lower gums is taken.
2. Custom Trays: Custom trays are used to create a more accurate impression of the lower jaw.
3. Jaw Relationship Record: Measurements of the jaw and how the upper and lower jaws relate to each other.
4. Try-In: A wax model of the denture is created and tried in the mouth to check fit, alignment, and aesthetic appearance.
5. Final Denture Creation: The final denture is fabricated based on the try-in.
6. Fitting and Adjustment: The final denture is inserted and adjusted for fit and comfort.

Tools and Equipment: Dental impression materials, custom trays, wax forms, denture fabrication tools. Anesthesia: Usually, no anesthesia is needed unless extractions or other preparatory procedures are required.

Duration

• Multiple sessions over several weeks, with each appointment lasting about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

• Typically performed in a dental office or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Dentist or Prosthodontist (a specialist in dental prosthetics)
• Dental Assistants

Risks and Complications

• Initial discomfort or soreness as the patient adjusts to the new denture.
• Potential for denture sore spots or ulcers on the gums.
• Difficulty in achieving proper fit, requiring multiple adjustments.
• Rarely, allergic reactions to materials used.

Benefits

• Restoration of normal function, allowing for more effective chewing and clearer speech.
• Improved appearance and increased self-confidence.
• Immediate benefits typically realized within a few days to weeks after fitting.

Recovery

• Follow-up appointments for adjustments and to monitor healing.
• Oral hygiene and care instructions to maintain denture and gum health.
• Initial adjustment period of a few weeks, with full adaptation typically taking a few months.

Alternatives

• Dental Implants: More permanent solution but may not be suitable for all patients.
• Implant-Supported Dentures: Combination of dentures and dental implants.
• Partial Dentures: Suitable if some natural teeth remain.

Patient Experience

• Initial feeling of bulkiness or looseness; normal adjustment period expected.
• Regular dental visits for adjustments to improve comfort.
• Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers and using denture adhesives if necessary.
• Ongoing care involves regular cleaning of the dentures and maintenance of oral hygiene.

By following this structured approach, patients can have a clear understanding of the Complete Denture - Mandibular procedure, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for their treatment.