Do traditional techniques produce better conventional complete dentures than simplified techniques

Objectives To compare the quality of conventional complete dentures fabricated with two different techniques. A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted to compare traditional (T) and simplified (S) methods of making complete conventional dentures on patientsʹ ratings of satisfaction, comfort and function at 3 and 6 months following delivery. The quality of the prostheses was rated by prosthodontists at 6 months. Materials and methods One hundred twenty-two male and female edentulous individuals, aged 45–75 years, were randomly allocated into groups that received dentures made with either T or S methods. Following delivery, patientsʹ ratings of several denture-related factors were measured using 100 mm visual analogue scales, and denture quality was assessed by blinded prosthodontists using ratings on a validated quantitative scale. Results There were no significant differences between the two groups in patient ratings for overall satisfaction (3 months: mean T=83 mm, mean S=83 mm, P=0.97; 6 months: mean T=79 mm, mean S=79 mm, P=0.96) or in prosthodontistsʹ ratings of denture quality (T=66, S=63; P=0.38). Conclusion These results show that the quality of complete dentures does not suffer when manufacturing techniques are simplified to save time and materials. Dental educators should consider these findings when re-designing prosthodontic training programs.