Theoretical versus practical application of prosthodontic techniques in private dental clinics in India: A survey

Abstract

Objectives: To know the various prosthodontic techniques followed by the private dental practitioners as compared withthe techniques taught to them in the dental schools. Materials and Methods: A survey was done to determine the prosthodontic techniques by private practitioners in India. A pretested questionnaire performa containing questions on complete denture, removable partial denture, and fixed partial denture fabrication was prepared for the private practitioners to be filled up. A total of 700 subjects were included in the final study (70% response rate). Results: A total of 80.4% of the practitioners used to do the whole prosthetic treatment themselves. A total of 61.7% used to make study casts before the treatment. And, 85% of the practitioners preferred to make complete dentures using double impression technique. Most practitioners faced problems during fabrication of complete dentures, removable partial denture, and fixed partial prosthesis. Conclusion: The findings from this study showed that the respondents did not follow the techniques and procedures which were being taught in the dental schools which had been deemed to be clinically essential for the successful prosthodontic treatment and there was a need for continuing dental education programs for the private practitioners for upgradation of their clinical skills.