Dual Component Removable Partial Denture improves practicality and physiological outcomes

Objectives: Dual Component Removable Partial Denture (DuCo RPD) is composed of a double base. The lower base, to which the artificial teeth are attached, acts as a support that makes contact with the alveolar ridges and oral mucosa. Clasps are designed on the upper base, which acts towards the retention and stabilization of the denture. This study aims to compare the practicality and physiological changes between the use of DuCo RPD and Removable Partial Denture (RPD).

Methods: Thirty-three cases of Kennedy class III patients were chosen to use either DuCo RPD or RPD. Annual check-up was performed for three years to survey body weight, systemic physical signs, facial symmetry, dental caries, alveolar bone density, periodontal status, teeth motility, teeth survival, denture retention, stability and degree of comfort

Results: Body weight, systemic physical signs, facial symmetry, dental caries, and periodontal status were not statistically different between the RPD and the DuCo RPD users. Teeth motility and teeth loss of the RPD group were significant higher (p < 0.05) than the DuCo RPD group. A significant increase in terms of alveolar bone density, denture retention and stability (p < 0.05) was also observed for the DuCo RPD group.

Conclusions: DuCo RPD is more practical and demonstrates better physiological outcomes than RPD for dental patients.