RESUMEN
Fracture of acrylic resin removable dentures occurs frequently during service through heavy occlusal force or accidental damage. The purpose of this survey was to determine the number and type of damaged removable dentures at Dammam Dental Center, Dammam, Saudi Arabia and to ascertain the statistical relationship between certain variables and damage to dentures. Three operators were instructed to complete the questionnaires for each denture received for repairs at the center over a period of 6 months. Eleven variables were examined for each damaged denture. Results obtained showed that the type of dentures most commonly needing repair was the lower partial denture [46.4%]. Results also showed that 53.6% of the damaged dentures had been in use more than 1 year and less than 3 years. Impact failure [80.4%] was the most common cause of damage. The most frequent type of damage was breakdown of the acrylic base [71.4%]. The Chi-square test showed a statistical dependence [P<0.05] between damaged dentures and some of tested variables namely, Kennedy classification of partial denture, age of the denture, causes of fracture, type of fracture, retention of the denture, type of antagonist and strengthener of the denture. It could be concluded that damage to removable dentures is quite frequent and provides much distress and cost for patients. These difficulties can best be prevented by regular examinations of the mouth and dentures. A new, more suitable method of reinforcing the base of dentures during preparation is also needed