ORAL REHABILITATION WITH PROSTHESIS IN TOTALLY EDENTULOUS ELDERLY PATIENTS: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Prostheses in dentistry are devices created with the aim of replacing elements and returning lost alveolar volume in a toothless arch, favoring masticatory and phonetic function, as well as aesthetics and facial harmony. Objective: To demonstrate the importance of rehabilitation of toothless elderly people as well as the most suitable techniques for this. Methodology: A literature review was used, including articles published between 2015 and 2024, in Portuguese and English. Results: Fixed prostheses on implants are considered by most dental surgeons as the gold standard treatment in the rehabilitation of edentulous mandibles due to their high stability and greater resistance to chewing loads, being indicated mainly in cases of patients who have lost little bone structure. However, low-income patients can opt for a removable prosthesis. Conclusion: The use of dentures, whether removable or fixed, is essential to reestablish speech and chewing function.