Oral rehabilitation with a total removable prosthesis: a literature review

ABSTRACT To review the literature on oral rehabilitation with removable full dentures. A literature review was carried out of 36 scientific articles published between 1980 and 2024, selected from the SciELO and PubMed databases. The results show the evolution in the management of edentulism and the positive impact of total prostheses on oral health and patients’ quality of life, especially among the elderly. Removable complete dentures have emerged as a viable and affordable solution, especially for the underprivileged, restoring aesthetics, chewing, and speech. Although making these prostheses requires technique, planning, and effective communication between patient and professional, the literature shows that satisfaction with these prostheses is associated with increased self-esteem and improved quality of life. The primary disadvantages of prostheses include functional, aesthetic, oral complications, and longevity. The use of removable total prostheses is a recommended alternative to mitigate the effects of edentulism, promoting psychological and functional benefits, with a positive impact on socialization and well-being. Periodic evaluation of these prostheses is essential to ensure their adaptation and durability, especially considering the retention and stability challenges presented in specific cases, such as lower prostheses.