A clinical study - Evaluation of breakage of complete denture

The main purpose of the study was to determine the causes for the breakage of complete dentures of patients reporting to the Department of Prosthodontics, SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, Karnataka, India. Data collected from 200 patients reported for repair of their complete dentures. Data was collected from patients, aged between 30 to 80 years (Mean 55 plus/minus 25 years), from both the genders. Investigations were done on factors causing the breakage. After the analysis it was observed that the ratio of breakage of upper to lower denture was 1:3. Most breakages were common among males (55%). The most common reason being accidental dropping of the denture in case of the lower and improper fit and stability of the denture, improper arrangement and occlusion of the teeth for the upper one. Midline breakage was the most common site for breakage (60%). After analysis, the causes for the breakage were divided into material factors and clinical/technical factors. It was concluded that after denture insertion, instructions of denture care were required to be told to the patients to reduce mishaps, proper principles of denture fabrication were required for mechanical advantage of the denture – balanced occlusion, removal of interferences, reduction of stress concentration areas etc has to be followed. The use of high Impact acrylics and strengthened acrylic along with methods increasing breakage toughness of the conventional acrylic dentures are to be used.