This article serves as an introduction to a comprehensive guide on removable partial dentures (RPDs), drawing from extensively revised and augmented content previously featured in “A Colour Atlas of Removable Partial Dentures.” This guide, now reorganized into two volumes to align with the “Clinical Guide” series, emphasizes the clinical aspects and techniques of RPD treatment, as well as the procedures and principles of RPD design. This series aims to provide a coherent account of the key aspects leading to definitive RPD treatment.
The articles in this series cover the following topics:
- Need and demand for treatment, including RPDs and the elderly population.
- The risk-benefit equation of removable partial dentures.
- Effective communication between dentists and dental technicians.
- Surveying techniques for RPD fabrication.
- A systematic approach to RPD design.
- Retention mechanisms for RPDs.
- Bracing and reciprocation principles.
- Principles of clasp design in RPDs.
- Indirect retention methods.
- Connectors used in RPDs.
- Initial prosthetic treatment considerations.
- Tooth preparation for RPDs.
While scientific data supporting RPD design concepts remains limited, there’s a consensus among prosthodontic specialists that prioritizing hygienic aspects of RPD design is crucial for maintaining the patient’s oral health. This series emphasizes this belief, advocating for RPD designs that primarily focus on preserving oral health.
Understanding the Need and Demand for Removable Partial Dentures
The first article in this series highlights the distinction between the need for RPD treatment and the demand for it. It addresses the dangers of overtreatment and explores management options for partially edentulous patients. Furthermore, it delves into the demographic aspects of an aging population and the potential significance of retaining teeth into old age.
Enhancing Communication Between Dentist and Dental Technician
Effective communication between the dentist and the dental technician is essential for successful RPD treatment. This series will address common shortcomings in communication and offer solutions to improve collaboration. In the full volumes from which this series is extracted, each chapter on the clinical stages of RPD treatment includes checklists of instructions for the dental technician, serving as a valuable aide-mémoire for the dentist.
Surveying Techniques for Optimal RPD Design
The surveying process is thoroughly explained, guiding the reader through a logical sequence for achieving an optimal final RPD design.
Key Aspects of Removable Partial Denture Design
Multiple articles will cover various aspects of RPD design. One article, specifically on clasp design, is derived from a comprehensive section on design principles in ‘A Clinical Guide to Removable Partial Denture Design’.
This section originated from a collection of design rules initially developed for a computerised knowledge-based system for RPD design. These rules were initially sourced from literature and subsequently refined based on feedback from prosthodontic specialists across dental schools in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The level of consensus each design rule received from these experts is included to guide the reader. Since then, further contributions have been made by prosthodontic specialists from various countries. Readers are encouraged to actively engage with this article by forming their own opinions on the listed design principles and comparing them to those of the experts, while considering the discussion points provided.
Preparing the Oral Environment for RPD Success
The series concludes by outlining procedures for establishing the most favorable oral environment to ensure the success of RPDs.
References
- ‘RaPiD’, TMS Ltd, Aylesbury, UK.
