Dental prosthesis, also known as dental prosthetics, refers to artificial devices or replacements used to restore and replace missing teeth or oral structures. These prosthetic devices are designed to enhance a patient's oral function, appearance, and overall dental health. Dental prosthesis can be removable or fixed, and they are custom-made to fit a patient's unique dental anatomy. They are commonly used to replace missing teeth, improve chewing and speech, and enhance the aesthetics of a person's smile.

There are several types of dental prostheses, including:

1.    Dentures: Dentures are removable dental prostheses used to replace multiple missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They consist of artificial teeth set in a pink or gum-colored acrylic base. Dentures can be complete (replacing all teeth in an arch) or partial (replacing only some teeth).

2.    Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are fixed prostheses used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring them to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. The replacement teeth, called pontics, bridge the gap left by the missing teeth.

3.    Dental Implants: Dental implants are permanent prosthetic devices used to replace single or multiple missing teeth. They consist of titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone and serve as artificial tooth roots. Crowns, bridges, or dentures can be attached to the implants to restore the missing teeth.

4.    Crowns (Caps): Dental crowns are individual prosthetic restorations that cover and protect damaged or weakened natural teeth. They are often used after procedures like root canals or when a tooth is severely decayed or fractured.

5.    Veneers: Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite material that are bonded to the front surface of natural teeth to improve their appearance. They are commonly used to address cosmetic issues like stained, misshapen, or slightly misaligned teeth.

6.    Implant-Supported Dentures: These are removable dentures that are attached to dental implants in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures provide greater stability and chewing efficiency compared to traditional removable dentures.

7.    Overdentures: Overdentures are a type of removable denture that fits over the remaining natural teeth or dental implants, providing additional support and stability.

Dental prostheses are customized to match the color, shape, and size of a patient's natural teeth, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The choice of prosthesis depends on the individual's specific dental needs and oral health condition, as well as their preferences and budget.

Dental prosthetics are an integral part of restorative dentistry, helping patients regain their oral function, self-confidence, and quality of life after tooth loss or dental damage. They are designed to look and function as closely as possible to natural teeth.