Depending on the severity and complexity of the specific case, either a Dentist or a Prosthodontist can perform treatment, the latter being the specialist of choice to treat severe cases.

Different types of treatment are used, depending on the client’s budget i.t.o. time and financial. Biological considerations such as the quantity and quality of bone also play a role.

One also needs to take many other functional factors into consideration, such as how will it affect the person’s speech, chewing, lip support (aesthetics) and the joints where the lower jaw articulates on the skull.

The use of full upper and lower dentures have become almost redundant, without the use of implants. Especially full lower dentures need to be supported by at least four implants, to ensure functionality. Four to six implants are usually placed in the upper jaw to sustain denture retention.

Full upper and lower bridges can be attached permanently to the implants to fully restore function, without having to remove and cleanse them. The implants need to be kept clean though, but bi-annual visits to the dentist will compliment daily home-care.

Where many healthy teeth are available, a combination of implants, crowns, bridges and dentures can be used to reconstruct the bite and the smile.

To perform a full oral rehabilitation, meticulous care must be given to the treatment planning and this is usually a team effort between the dentist and a group of specialists.