Results of a survey of complete denture procedures taught in American and Canadian dental schools

Abstract

All the data from this survey have been tabulated and will be available to the cooperating schools for their evaluation and use. It is very obvious from the report that many of the schools are severely handicapped by the common problems of insufficient faculty, little or no auxiliary personnel, limited teaching time, and others. 1 Even though all the schools teach a basic and sound technique, some of the procedures appear to be questionable in view of current research and clinical reports. However, these questionable procedures may be necessary due to the conditions mentioned above. Unfortunately, it is usually more enjoyable and satisfying to criticize than to participate for the purpose of improvement. It is to the self-interest of the practicing dentists to actively support their schools; by their doing so the teaching programs would be improved. Nevertheless, the dental educators have a heavy burden of responsibility. The principles and procedures are usually deeply inculcated and will have a widespread effect on future generations of dentists and patients. Prosthetic dentistry—like any other branch of art and science—is not static, but viable, moving, and, hopefully, improving. Constant re-evaluation of current and future programs should be made by all teachers that are responsible for prosthodontic education.