Titanium for removable dentures. II. Two-year clinical observations.

Titanium (Ti) is a relatively new metal in prosthodontics. As a possible material for removable partial dentures (RPDs), it was used in its pure form to make 10 RPDs which were compared with 10 identical cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) alloy RPDs in a clinical trial. The dentures were used alternately for four weeks, the subjects were asked to answer a questionnaire and then the Co-Cr dentures were withdrawn. The Ti dentures were then followed up for 2 years and another standardized questionnaire administered. A survival rate of rests and retainers of 91% was recorded and the dentures were found to be more comfortable (55%) and preferred (64%) than the Co-Cr dentures. Factors to increase the success rates are discussed.