Prosthetics

Prosthetics refers to the replacement of missing body parts with an artificial structure that looks and functions as much like the natural part as possible. As relates to dentistry, of course, that most often means the replacement of teeth, but also may include the replacement of parts of the lips, jaws or other missing oral structures.

Prosthetics in dentistry are divided into two main categories: Fixed (meaning that the replacement is non-removable meant to stay in place permanently), and removable (meaning that the prosthetic device may be easily taken in and out of the mouth by the wearer).

Fixed or non-removable prosthetics include crowns and bridges of various types including those placed on top of implants (artificial roots or anchors placed into the bone).