Post insertion problems of removable prosthesis: Causes, diagnosis and treatment

Post insertion problems of removable prosthesis: Causes, diagnosis and treatment Dr. F. Geramipanah* - Dr. G. Asadi** *- Associate Professor of Prosthodontics Dept. - Faculty of Dentistry - Tehran University / Medical Sciences. ** - Resident of Prosthodontics Dept. Faculty of Dentistry – Tehran University / Medical Sciences. Over the past 20 years, the number of edentulous adults has declined in developed countries. Considering the increase in the general populations’ life span, the need and demand for complete dentures is becoming more widespread, especially in our country with the high prevalence of edentulism. Despite the advances in dental materials and improved technological and clinical expertise, yet there are many patients experiencing difficulties in wearing removable dentures such as pain, discomfort, loss of retention, gagging, reduced taste sensation and problems related to speech, esthetics and function. Many of these issues are due to faulty or incorrect diagnosis, inaccurate treatment planning or mechanical deficiencies such as inappropriate denture design. Also, physical and psychological problems may contribute either directly or indirectly to a patient's inability to use the prosthesis. This makes it necessary for practitioners to have a general perception of the causes, diagnosis and treatment of these problems. The purpose of this investigation was to review the various problems associated with denture wearing which may be immediate, short-term or long-term and also to identify their cause, diagnosis and treatment. Key words: Post insertion problem – Removable prostheses