Simple complete denture techniques can provide patient satisfaction

Abstract

Design

A randomised controlled trial (RCT) was carried out in a hospital environment.

Intervention

A total of 122 edentulous individuals, aged 45–75 years, were randomly allocated into groups to receive dentures made using either traditional or simplified techniques. Individuals allocated to the traditional arm had a final impression taken in a custom-made tray, a face-bow recording and a semi-adjustable articulator was used, with articulator remount after delivery. Those in the simplified-technique group had impressions taken in stock trays, no face-bow recording and a mono-plane articulator was used, with no articulator remount after delivery.

Outcome measure

The main outcome was the patients’ ratings on 100 mm Visual analogue scale (VAS) of overall general satisfaction with their set of dentures. Secondary outcomes were their VAS ratings of the maxillary and mandibular dentures alone for satisfaction, comfort, stability, aesthetics, ability to speak, ease of cleaning, and ability to chew soft white bread, hard cheese, raw carrot, sausage, steak, raw apple and lettuce. The clinical assessment of denture quality at the 6-month recall was carried out by four prosthodontists who were blind both to group allocation and to the purpose of the study.

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups in patient ratings for overall satisfaction at 3 or 6 months

Conclusions

These results support the use of simplified techniques, which are easier to master and which should reduce treatment costs. Educators should consider these findings when designing curricula for prosthodontic training.

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