A nontraditional technique for obtaining optimal esthetics for an immediate denture: a clinical report.

Bimaxillary protrusion and severe labioversion of anterior teeth complicate impression procedures and increase the difficulty in making esthetic predictions for the immediate complete denture patient. The presented technique, performed in reverse order of traditional methods, is accomplished in stages in which the anterior and nonessential posterior teeth are extracted and interim removable partial dentures placed. An opportunity is thus created to evaluate esthetics, phonetics, and anterior tooth function before extraction of the remaining dentition and delivery of immediate complete dentures. This technique facilitated the determination of the need for alveoplasty of the anterior maxilla.

The Twin-Flex removable partial denture: design, fabrication, and clinical usage.

A rationale for the use of Twin-Flex clasps is presented. Twin-Flex clasps may provide improved esthetics, an increased number of clasping sites, and enhanced patient comfort when compared with conventional clasping systems. Two fabrication methods are described, and departures from conventional clasping techniques are explained.

A comprehensive approach to die trimming.

Proper trimming of stone dies is an essential step in fixed prosthodontics. Die trimming requires meticulous technique and a thorough understanding of required elements in die design. By dividing the die into three zones, die contour requirements can be better understood, discussed, and demonstrated. A two-step technique provides optimal results, incorporating a logical plan with the use of proper magnification and illumination.

Evaluation of incisal guide calibrations.

The incisal guide calibrations of three adjustable articulators were investigated and compared to determine the significance of the different incremental markings of each. A method to use vertical changes in the anterior incisal guide of these three articulators accurately to measure jaw and tooth separation was proposed. The relationship between pin opening and incisor opening was evaluated by direct measurement and calculation. Twenty sets of diagnostically mounted casts were examined to evaluate the accuracy of the radius that generates each curved pin in relation to incisor position. Considering the as-manufactured incisal guide markings, casts mounted in a Denar D5A or TMJ articulator will bear a closer relationship between pin opening and incisor separation than casts mounted in a Stuart gnathological computer. To approximate linear incisor separation per calibration mark for each instrument, a table of values was presented for casts mounted at various positions.