ABSTRACT
The results of a survey that examined the perceptions and attitudes of patients who have completed fixed prosthodontic treatment were described. The data obtained in this survey confirm the clinical experiences of many restorative dentists. Most patients desire functional, comfortable, and particularly, esthetic restorations. They are sensitive to changes that occur when provisional restorations are replaced by definitive crowns and fixed partial dentures. Tooth preparation and impression procedures are perceived as the most unpleasant steps in the treatment process. On completion of treatment, patients recognize and appreciate its benefits. The data have implications for the overall treatment process. With an appreciation for the perceptions and attitudes of fixed prosthodontic patients, the restorative dentist is prepared more completely to provide satisfying restorations. Through increased awareness of patient expectations and experiences, restorations can be planned, made and placed in harmony with the hard and soft oral tissues, and in harmony with the patient's expectations as well.
Subject(s)
Attitude , Consumer Behavior , Denture, Partial, Fixed/psychology , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Esthetics, Dental , Female , Humans , Male , Middle AgedABSTRACT
The most serious problem associated with the patient with an overactive gag reflex is the strong potential for compromised treatment. A complete oral examination, medical history, and conversation with the patient are important sources of information that assist with the management of gagging problems. Many techniques are available for controlling the exaggerated gag reflex, and no single technique will solve each patient's problem. The technique or techniques used should be dictated by the cause or causes involved. If organic disturbances, anatomic anomalies, or biomechanical inadequacies of existing prostheses are not key causes, the services of trained specialists are needed to help with behavioral management of the problem.
Subject(s)
Dental Care/methods , Dentures , Gagging , Reflex , Anesthetics, Local/pharmacology , Behavior Therapy , Denture Design , Dentures/psychology , Gagging/drug effects , Humans , Hypnosis, Dental , Palate, Soft/physiology , Reflex/drug effectsSubject(s)
Gagging , Reflex , Dental Care , Dentures , Humans , Pharynx/physiology , Physical Stimulation , Psychology , Reflex/physiology , Tongue/physiologyABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to identify the factors underlying dental students' evaluations of preclinical instruction. Ninety sophomore students in academic year 1979-80 and 74 sophomore students in academic year 1980-81 rated five preclinical instructors in a fixed prosthodontic technique course. At the end of the course, prior to final examinations, students received a 24-item evaluation instrument designed to assess preclinical teaching behavior. All items were rated on a 5-point scale, with response options ranging from no agreement to strong agreement. Factor analytic techniques were used to identify common sources of variation among items. Results indicate that 22 of the 24 items correspond to two underlying, stable dimensions that summarize preclinical teaching effectiveness, teaching style, and orientation toward students. The discussion compares teaching effectiveness dimensions identified in dental education studies with dimensions identified in studies of college instruction.
Subject(s)
Education, Dental , Students, Dental , Teaching/methods , Evaluation Studies as Topic , Humans , Prosthodontics/educationABSTRACT
A simplified method of removing a fixed partial denture has been described. The principle of the Class I or II lever systems is used to deliver force along the path of withdrawal. Carefully applied, this technique may permit removal of a restoration with minimal trauma to the prosthesis and supporting teeth. Where reasonable pressure fails to dislodge the restoration, it should be sacrificed rather than risk permanent damage to the abutment.
