Insertion axis in removable prosthesis: a preliminary report.

Background: Removable partial denture (RPD) is still a widely used prosthesis today to solve non-implant cases, despite its aesthetic contraindications. The aim of the following work is to evaluate how much the communication and explanation to the patient of the insertion axis of the removable partial prosthesis in the periodontium and teeth has an impact on his degree of acceptance of the aesthetic limits of this prosthesis.

Methods: For this study, 150 patients were examined from 10 dentists, 5 in Lombardy and 5 in Sicily, using inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria. All selected patients required removable partial dentures. The data was obtained by completing 2 questionnaires, at three different times, at prosthesis delivery, at 6 and 12 months.

Results: Questionnaires highlighted overlapping data in the two regions and a total absence of communication of the insertion axis by the dental technician laboratories was highlighted with a percentage of 100%. 28% of the patients complained of pain during the insertion of the prosthesis at 12 months and 39.33% of patients had mobility of remaining teeth with clasps at 12 months. All patients experienced no discomfort, and no important data were reported at the first 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions: For mobile partial dentures, respecting the insertion axis can improve the predictability of the periodontal tissue and the resistance of the remaining teeth with clasps. The drawing of an arrow in the model shows the insertion axis of the prosthesis. It would be desirable to include information regarding the insertion axis and advice for the management of the removable partial denture in the first days of use in the declaration of conformity given to the doctor and to thepatient, in the indications section. It can be said that correct insertion of the removable partial denture, helped by verbal and written instructions from the doctor, can reduce possible periodontal alterations of the remaining teeth, by eliminating spurious stresses during insertion and removal of the prosthesis.