How does the telescopic denture work?
The natural teeth serve as the retaining apparatus for telescopic dentures. For this purpose, they are covered with so-called inner telescopes, which are firmly cemented onto the teeth (abutment teeth) as crowns. The outer telescopes sit on the removable part of the telescopic prosthesis. When the patient inserts the removable part of the prosthesis, the outer and inner telescopes slide over each other like links in a telescope. Dentures based on this design principle are optimally anchored in the dentition.
Advantages of the telescopic denture
The telescopic denture can be extended to a full denture if additional teeth are lost. This makes it easier for older people in particular, who generally find it difficult to adapt to dentures, to get used to the foreign body in their mouth. Removing part of the denture also makes cleaning easier. This means that telescopic dentures last longer than conventional dentures.
Thanks to the combined system of inner and outer crowns, the telescopic prosthesis also offers a firm hold when chewing and speaking without requiring an excessively large and uncomfortable contact surface. In some cases, a palatal plate can be dispensed with completely in the upper jaw with telescopic dentures, which many patients find more comfortable.
Disadvantages of the telescopic prosthesis
The biggest disadvantage is probably the relatively high cost of a telescopic prosthesis. This is mainly due to the fact that two crowns have to be made for each tooth. In addition, the fabrication requires absolute precision work by the dental technician.
