Predoctoral Fixed Prosthodontics Curriculum Survey

Purpose In 1996, a survey of American dental schools was conducted. The purpose of the survey was to determine the curricular structure, techniques taught, and materials used in predoctoral fixed prosthodontics courses. Materials and Methods The survey was mailed to the course directors of predoctoral fixed prosthodontic programs at 53 American dental schools. Of these, 42 schools returned the completed survey, resulting in a response rate of 79%. The mean, median, and the range of responses were computed where applicable. Results The results from this survey show that the mean student-to-faculty ratio in the preclinical course was 11:1, with a median of 10:1 and a range of 5:1 to 25:1. The mean number of laboratory clock hours was 164, with a median of 148 and a range of 81 to 288. The mean number of lecture hours reported was 42, with a median of 35 and a range of 20 to 80. Fifty-five percent of the schools used the Hanau semiadjustable articulator. The most commonly used provisional technique was the thermoplastic custom external surface form (44%). The finish line of choice for the full metal restoration was the chamfer placed circumferentially (74%). The finish line of choice for the porcelain-fused-to-metal restoration was the shoulder placed facially and the chamfer placed lingually (38%). Conclusions Predoctoral fixed prosthodontics education and technical experience varies from school to school, yet a large percentage of schools agree on certain topics.