A technique for the construction of complete dentures in two visits. I. Clinical and laboratory procedures.

Studies of the denture-nearing habits of elderly people have revealed that patients keep their dentures past the time when they should be replaced. In South Africa few studies are available, although the indications are that many old (and young) people in the black community do not have dentures at all. For elderly pensioners and for those who are out of work or without Medical Aid, the obstacle to having dentures made is mainly a financial one. A technique for the construction of dentures in two visits has been devised to reduce the cost and time required to make new dentures. The technique makes use of a bitefork to allow maxillomandibular registration to be made at the first visit and preformed anterior arch segments that allow the occlusal plane to be determined. Posterior arch segments are used in the laboratory to complete the assembly of the denture. The technique may be a useful option for poor and elderly patients, for whom time away from work, transport, and the cost of dentures are important factors in having dentures made.