Abstract:

Objective To collect the information about the types and clinically-used materials for fixed partial dentures, and evaluate the current conditions and characteristics of fixed partial dentures in Shanghai. Methods Three municipal public hospitals and two private commercial dental labs in Shanghai were served as sample units. The data of fixed partial dentures from January 2005 to December 2007 were retrospectively analysed. The number, type and material of dentures of each year were observed, and the proportion of different types and materials of dentures were analysed. Results From 2005 to 2007, the total number of fixed partial dentures gradually increased year by year, and porcelain fused metal crowns accounted for the largest proportion. The application of noble crown in public hospitals increased annually, and the increase rates were 13.85% in 2005 to 2006 and 30.86% in 2006 to 2007, respectively, while the application of casting basic metal full crown decreased annually. Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) fixed partial dentures (CAD/CAM crown) and implant dentures occupied a tiny percentage of total fixed partial dentures in public hospitals and privated dental labs, while both had a remarkable increase trend in number between 2005 and 2007 (227.78% and 53.01%, respectively for 2005 to 2006, and 120.34% and 27.41%, respectively for 2006 to 2007). Conclusion Fixed partial dentures are the most common prostheses for tooth defect, and are characterized by the growing application of advanced techniques and high-quality materials.

Key words: fixed partial denture, type, material, survey