Impact of removable partial denture prosthesis on chewing efficiency

Removable partial denture prostheses are still being used for anatomic, medical andeconomic reasons. However, the impact on chewing parameters is poorly described.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to estimate the impact of removable partialdenture prosthesis on masticatory parameters.

Material and Methods

Nineteen removable partial denture prosthesis (RPDP) wearers participated in thestudy. Among them, 10 subjects were Kennedy Class III partially edentulous and 9with posterior edentulism (Class I). All presented a complete and full dentateopposing arch. The subjects chewed samples of carrots and peanuts with and withouttheir prosthesis. The granulometry of the expectorated boluses from carrot andpeanuts was characterized by median particle size (D50), determined at the naturalpoint of swallowing. Number of chewing cycles (CC), chewing time (CT) and chewingfrequency (CF=CC/CT) were video recorded.

Results

With RPDP, the mean D50 values for carrot and peanuts were lower [Repeated ModelProcedures (RMP), F=15, p<0.001] regardless of the type of Kennedy Class. Foreach food, mean CC, CT and CF values recorded decreased (RMP, F=18, F=9, and F=20respectively, p<0.01). With or without RPD, the boluses'' granulometry valueswere above the masticatory normative index (MNI) determined as 4,000 µm.

Conclusion

RPDP rehabilitation improves the ability to reduce the bolus particle size, butdoes not reestablish fully the masticatory function.

Clinical relevance

This study encourages the clinical improvement of oral rehabilitationprocedure.