The partial metal prosthesis, made of a cobalt and chromium alloy, is used to replace missing teeth, whether adjacent or not. As there are other solutions for the replacement of a single tooth, they are mainly used when several teeth are missing. The partial prosthesis is supported on both the gums and the remaining teeth and is retained with hooks to the surrounding teeth; it is therefore more stable than the complete prosthesis thanks to its support on healthy natural teeth. Used for both the upper and lower jaw, it is used to restore and improve aesthetics and masticatory function while maintaining the remaining teeth in the correct position. Finally, it helps to preserve the balance of the natural teeth, mucous membrane, supporting bone and jaw joint.

• Lightweight;
• Solid;
• Easy maintenance;
• Few adjustments required;
• Does not interfere with the movement of the tongue.

• More expensive than the acrylic prosthesis;
• At first, the teeth on which the hooks rest may be sensitive (this feeling is temporary, however);
• The brackets may be visible in some cases;
• There should be an adjustment period;
• Metal can conduct heat and cold;
• The hooks can damage the natural teeth on which they are based and can cause cavities if strict hygiene is not observed.

• Tilt of neighboring teeth;
• Extrusion of the antagonistic teeth;
• Sinus hyperpneumatization;
• Bone resorption;
• Jaw joint disorder;
• Modification of the diet to be considered. For example, some foods such as raw vegetables and nuts will have to be cut before being ingested;
• Alteration of speech;
• Smiling unsightly;
• Permanent modification of the profile (appearance of the “witch’s chin” and hollow cheeks).

Delays ranging from a few days to a few weeks are expected to complete the following steps, depending on how the prosthesis is manufactured (on site at the clinic, in an external laboratory, etc.)

• Dental examination and impressions of your mouth to obtain details on the shape of the gum, the position of the internal structures of the mouth or adjacent to the future prosthesis, such as the tongue, lips and cheeks;
• Measurement of the jaw position, choice of teeth (color, shape and material) and base material according to your preferences and according to the complete physiognomy of your mouth;
• Manufacturing of the prosthesis in the laboratory or on site at the clinic, as the case may be;
• Fitting the prosthesis during the manufacturing process to check its function, aesthetics and how it adapts to your physiognomy. Preliminary adjustments as well as several fittings may be required;
• Putting the final prosthesis in the mouth, as well as the adjustments and corrections necessary to optimize your comfort.

If you have had dental extractions, a prosthesis adjustment 3 to 6 months after extraction is recommended following gingival loss during healing of the extraction sites.

Varies according to the type of prosthesis.

• Clean the prosthesis after each meal;
• Soak the prostheses in a jar of water overnight to avoid distortion;
• Ideally, use dipping solutions specially designed for prostheses and follow the manufacturer’s instructions since dipping times and product life can vary from one to the other;
• If tartar deposits form on the prostheses, never try to “scratch” them; instead, take your prosthesis to your dentist, who has the appropriate products and instruments for descaling the prostheses;
• Receive biannual examinations from your attending dentist to assess, among other things, the condition of the gums and supporting bone, as well as the general condition of the prosthesis.

• Tooth included;
• Residual root;
• Foreign body in the jaw bone;
• Surplus bone in the upper and/or lower jaw;
• Insufficient bone support (bone crest).

• Bridge;
• Implant;
• Prosthesis on implant(s).