Salvaging Compromised Natural Teeth with Tooth Supported Telescopic Over Denture: A Case Report

Background: Telescopic dentures gained popularity in late 1980's as an alternative to conventional complete dentures as well as conventional over dentures, due to the preservation of periodontium as well as the residual bone. A significant advantage of better retention, stability and support can be obtained with the remaining natural teeth. The residual ridge resorption is decreased significantly as a result of conversion of compressive forces into tensile forces through periodontal ligament, distributing even stresses. Materials and Methods: After the preparation of the abutments, a polyvinyl siloxane elastomer impression was made and the primary copings were fabricated on the subsequent cast obtained. After evaluating the fit of the primary copings on the abutments, they were cemented and an impression of the cemented primary copings was made for the fabrication of metal framework along with secondary copings which was included in the prosthesis. Conclusion: Tooth-supported, removable over dentures with telescopic crowns along with metal framework are a good alternative to the conventional removable dentures. These provide better occlusion, retention, stability, support, decrease in the forward sliding of the prosthesis and better control of the mandibular movements because of the proprioception feedback which increases the chewing efficiency and phonetics, as compared to the conventional complete dentures and over dentures.