Immediate Complete Dentures: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Background: Immediate complete dentures (ICDs) are a crucial treatment option in the field of dentistry, providing patients with both comfort and improved aesthetics. Despite their significance, there is a scarcity of research focussed on assessing the methods and procedures used in creating these prostheses. Consequently, a systematic review is required to examine the clinical protocols used to recommend this particular form of oral rehabilitation.

Aim: In this current systematic review, clinical data from various studies were analysed to investigate the effectiveness of ICDs in patients undergoing this form of oral rehabilitation.

Setting and design: This is a systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Materials and methods: The initial electronic search encompassed several databases, such as MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science, with a focus on English-language articles. The search criteria comprised specific terms and keywords such as "Immediate Complete Denture," "immediate denture," and "immediate total mouth rehabilitation." To structure the review process, the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome) framework was employed.

Statistical analysis used: Qualitative analysis.

Results: In this systematic review, the initial search yielded a total of 2529 studies based on the predefined selection criteria. After a rigorous elimination process, 1202 studies were excluded, leaving 40 studies for further evaluation. Among these, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria and were ultimately included in the review, while 21 studies were excluded. The search for relevant studies was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, covering research articles up to June 2023. The search process involved two independent reviewers, and after a comprehensive assessment, a total of 19 articles were considered suitable for inclusion in the review.

Conclusion: The primary conclusions of the systematic review emphasised the necessity for a well-defined clinical protocol in the preparation of ICDs. This protocol should include minimally invasive surgical procedures and regular patient follow-ups. Such an approach aims to minimise discomfort and ensure the maintenance of crucial aspects, such as vertical dimension, bilaterally balanced occlusion, and overall patient satisfaction with the treatment.