A survey of dentulous and edentulous patient preference among different denture esthetic concepts.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Most esthetic preference research and anatomical average analysis come from dentulous populations. If edentulous patients have a different preference, application of this data during denture construction is problematic. PURPOSE: The aim of this survey was to compare dentulous and edentulous respondent preference among three different denture esthetic concepts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A questionnaire and test booklet of standardized full-face digital photographs were used. It included three arrangements during maximum smile for six subjects. Dentulous and edentulous respondents were asked questions about their preference among the three randomly ordered concept photographs for each of the six subjects. A total of 167 dentulous and 269 edentulous questionnaires were analyzed descriptively and with Chi-squared tests to compare the esthetic preference of the respondents. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference overall between dentulous and edentulous preference. Respondent preference varied significantly depending upon subject set and gender. Preference data compared closely to previous research. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this survey, dentulous and edentulous respondent preference among the three esthetic concepts was not significantly different. Questionnaire respondents continued to frequently prefer appearances that are far from the anatomical average.

Survey of partial removable dental prosthesis (partial RDP) types in a distinct patient population.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Current demographic information on the number and types of removable partial dentures is lacking in the prosthodontic literature. PURPOSE: This study was designed to investigate patterns of tooth loss in patients receiving removable partial dentures (RPDs) in eastern Wisconsin. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Digital images (1502) of casts at 5 dental laboratories in eastern Wisconsin were collected. Any prescription requesting fabrication of a removable partial denture was photographed twice. The first photograph was made immediately upon arrival at the laboratory, while the second photograph was made immediately before being returned to the prescribing dentist for the first time. A calibrated investigator analyzed all the photographs for Kennedy Classification, type of RPD, major connector, and other details. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Fisher's exact test was used to confirm repeatability. RESULTS: Kennedy Class I was the most common RPD with a frequency of 38.4%. More than 40% of prescriptions had no design input from the dentist. One in 3 RPDs used acrylic resin or flexible frameworks. One in 5 RPDs had no rests. The horseshoe major connector was the most common maxillary major connector, while the lingual plate was the most common in the mandible. CONCLUSIONS: RPDs remain a common prosthodontic treatment in this region. Non-metal RPD frameworks are a common treatment type and rarely include rests. These data indicate a changing partially edentulous patient population and a variable commitment to standard levels of prosthodontic care.

Turning points in removable partial denture philosophy.

This article discusses key turning points in removable partial denture (RPD) philosophy. Early advancements tended to focus upon improving the technical quality of the prosthesis itself. The beginning of the 20th century brought significant public pressure upon the dental profession due to consequences associated with poor quality fixed prostheses. The result was dramatic improvement and heavy demand for RPDs. Technical and efficiency issues conspired to temper this enthusiasm, eventually resulting in reduced respect for RPDs. By highlighting key writings and technical issues during these periods of change it is hoped the reader will gain a more precise understanding of the current status of RPD philosophy.

A maxillary laser-welded component removable partial denture: a clinical report.

Component removable partial dentures (RPDs) are fabricated in pieces and assembled on the definitive cast. The treatment modality described is believed by the authors to optimize the passive fit and frictional retention of the RPD. Increased frictional retention and stability is believed to improve the clinical performance of the RPD. Patients may thereby benefit from more esthetic and more durable prostheses.

The conversion partial denture: a clinical report.

The treatment alternative described maximizes the benefit of remaining teeth while allowing simplified alteration of the prosthesis if abutments are lost during the life span of the removable partial denture (RPD). A conversion partial is an RPD whose tooth-frame assembly components are individually fabricated and then joined with an acrylic resin major connector. The conversion RPD optimizes retention and stabilization of a terminal dentition and can be easily converted to an immediate complete denture.