protetisk

Protetisk is a term used in Scandinavian languages to denote prosthetic treatment within dentistry and related fields. In English, the equivalent terms are prosthetic dentistry or prosthodontics. Protetisk care involves the design, fabrication, and fitting of artificial devices that replace missing teeth and other oral structures.

Common prostheses include crowns, bridges, dentures (complete and partial), dental implants, inlays and onlays, veneers, and maxillofacial prostheses.

Goals: restore function such as chewing and speech, improve aesthetics, protect remaining teeth and tissues, and support oral health. Treatment planning considers occlusion, esthetics, material properties, and patient preferences.

Process typically involves evaluation, impressions or digital scans, diagnostic wax-ups, provisional restorations, lab fabrication or CAD/CAM milling, fitting, adjustment, and cementation or secure attachment.

Materials vary by indication and include metal alloys (e.g., gold, cobalt-chromium), ceramics (porcelain, zirconia), composites, and denture resins. Recent advances include monolithic ceramics and digital planning.

In many countries prosthodontists specialize in this field; general dentists may perform routine prosthetic work. Protetisk care is multidisciplinary, often involving dental technicians, periodontists, and oral surgeons. Long-term maintenance is needed to monitor fit and function.