[Longitudinal study on the effectiveness+ of removable cast partial dentures].

A prospective longitudinal study of 33 middle-aged patients carried out over a period of four years and based on a standardized procedure provides evidence that, under the conditions examined, a hygienic design of removable cast partial dentures can be recommended as a structurepreserving approach. During this study a regular dental and oral hygiene regimen was maintained. An evaluation of the results according to tooth surfaces revealed typical highrisk areas which require particular attention in dental care. All in all, the results obtained in the course of time indicate that the patients' oral health status could be largely preserved.