A subjective comparison of removable partial dentures with metal frameworks fabricated by conventional or CAD/CAM methodologies

Abstract

Purpose of the study: New emerging technology has challenged the traditional views on the fabrication of removable partial denture metal frameworks. Selective laser melting is a novel technology that can produce metal frameworks. Multiple studies can be found on how its properties compare to the conventional casting methodology, however, patient and dentist satisfaction with this new technology is yet to be properly explored. Research question: Is there a perceived difference among dentists and patients between removable partial dentures with metal frameworks fabricated using conventional methodology and removable partial dentures with metal frameworks fabricated using CAD/CAM methodologies? Material methodology: 10 patients requiring 14 removable partial dentures were treated. 7 partial dentures were manufactured using the conventional methodology, and another 7 using selective laser melting. A series of questions, ‘Dentist questionnaires’ were asked at the metal try-in and delivery stages to get the dentists' opinion on the prosthesis. The patients were asked through a questionnaire to review their prosthesis a week after the denture delivery (T1) and then again after 6 weeks (T2). Results: The main variable being compared in the study, the manufacturing method, had no statistically significant results when compared to the continuous variables listed in the study (p > 0.05). The research also compared the Patient Questionnaire at T1 and the Patient Questionnaire at T2. A statistically significant improvement was observed in the Masticatory group from T1 to T2. Likewise, there was a considerable improvement in the Group Function from T1 to T2. Conversely, a regress was observed in ‘Oral Hygiene’ from the T1 to the T2. Conclusion: The study concluded that the manufacturing method used does not affect the satisfaction levels of either patient or dentist. Further studies should be carried out with larger sample sizes.