Removable partial denture design in Alberta dental practices.

Studies published in the dental literature have found, all too frequently, that dentists do not pay adequate attention to the design of cast removable partial denture frameworks. This study investigated removable partial denture design in Alberta dental practices. The authors considered various issues related to surveying, partial denture design, and provider education, as well as the possible collaboration of clinical dentistry with denturism in removable partial denture treatment. Although the study found that a significant proportion of Alberta's dentists get involved in designing the cast framework, relatively few undertake surveying. Instead, surveying tends to be deferred to dental technicians. As was the case in other studies, no clear reason for this trend emerged, and it appeared to be unrelated to remuneration or time utilization issues. Responding dentists perceived that their undergraduate education was adequate for providing removable partial denture care. The study also identified a need for small, hands-on continuing education courses. About half of the respondents indicated that it is appropriate for dentists to collaborate with denturists on complete denture care. However, very few respondents considered it appropriate to refer to, or collaborate with, denturists in removable partial denture care.