DR. S.V. SINGH, OMBUDSPERSON - E-mail ID: ombudsperson@santosh.ac.in

Removable partial dentures (RPD) have an important role in the health of periodontium. fixed prostheses are most suitable for replacement of missing teeth, but there are certain clinical situations where RPD are the only possible way to restore the function of teeth, as is the case of Kennedy class I and II. Some patients are unable to afford treatment with implants either anatomical or economic reasons, therefore RPD can be considered a simple, non-invasive, and relatively cheap treatment option for the shortened dental arch.

RPD are generally attached to the abutment natural teeth by clasps or attachments that hold the denture in place. RPD in the mouth has the potential of increase plaque formation on tooth surface in contact with RPD, especially to abutment teeth, to which clasps or attachments are attached.

Epidemiological studies in animals and in humans have shown that dental plaque is an essential factor in the etiology of periodontitis. RPD can increase the incidence of caries; damage the periodontium, relatively large amounts of plaque and the amount of stress on natural teeth..

Therefore, the control of dental plaque is important to obtain good denture prognosis and performance for a long period. Many studies have investigated the effect of regular check-ups on oral health and denture hygiene with carefully planned prosthetic treatment. All periodontal parameters appeared with better results in patients who were going to receive RPDs, and they should be motivated and instructed in order to prevent periodontal diseases.

The lack of oral hygiene and health care management may be the cause of the loss of abutment teeth for elderly patients. With carefully planned prosthetic treatment and adequate maintenance of the oral and denture hygiene, we can prevent the periodontal diseases. Regular recall of appointments plays an important role in preventing changes of abutment tooth.

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