The Oral Health Component of the 2007–2009 Canadian Health Measures Survey found that 16% of Canadian adults had moderate periodontal disease, and 4% had severe disease, according to clinical measurements of changes in the gum and ligaments. Treatment for periodontal disease involves the establishment of a dental hygiene regimen, with mechanical removal of plaque and calculus, and, in severe cases, topical antiseptics, systemic antibiotics or oral surgery. Chewing ability can be restored using any or a combination of strategies, including fixed or partial dentures, or implants.

Numerous designs for appliances and biocompatible materials have been developed. For removable partial dentures, metal frames are deemed preferable, but they may not be suitable for patients with periodontal disease, where progressive changes to the mouth, including tooth loss, may lead to the need for further modifications of the appliance. Acrylic (i.e., plastic) dentures are more readily modifiable than metal.

This report is an update from a published Rapid Response report on the clinical effectiveness and safety of acrylic removable partial dentures and metal removable partial dentures in patients with periodontal disease.

Contents

• CONTEXT AND POLICY ISSUES
• RESEARCH QUESTIONS
• KEY FINDINGS
• METHODS
  • Literature Search Methods
  • Selection Criteria and Methods
  • Exclusion Criteria
  • Critical Appraisal of Individual Studies
• SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE
  • Quantity of Research Available
  • Summary of Study Characteristics
  • Summary of Critical Appraisal
  • Summary of Findings
  • Limitations
• CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DECISION OR POLICY MAKING
• REFERENCES
• APPENDIX 1 SELECTION OF INCLUDED STUDIES
• APPENDIX 2 ADDITIONAL REFERENCES OF POTENTIAL INTEREST

Disclaimer: The Rapid Response Service is an information service for those involved in planning and providing health care in Canada. Rapid responses are based on a limited literature search and are not comprehensive, systematic reviews. The intent is to provide a list of sources of the best evidence on the topic that CADTH could identify using all reasonable efforts within the time allowed. Rapid responses should be considered along with other types of information and health care considerations. The information included in this response is not intended to replace professional medical advice, nor should it be construed as a recommendation for or against the use of a particular health technology. Readers are also cautioned that a lack of good quality evidence does not necessarily mean a lack of effectiveness particularly in the case of new and emerging health technologies, for which little information can be found, but which may in future prove to be effective. While CADTH has taken care in the preparation of the report to ensure that its contents are accurate, complete and up to date, CADTH does not make any guarantee to that effect. CADTH is not liable for any loss or damages resulting f rom use of the information in the report.