Abstract
Introduction: The most common problems caused by the long-term use of removable partial dentures are periodontitis and caries affecting abutment teeth. The acrylic tooth junction is prone to plaque accumulation and growth of microbial biofilms. Hence, partial dentures need to promote oral self-cleansing not only by their design but also by their chemical nature. Acrylic resins are capable of acting as rechargeable power banks in vivo, and providing sustained concentrations of antimicrobial agents at the tooth-gingiva-denture junction would greatly enhance prognosis. This randomized clinical trial was designed to assess the caries susceptibility and periodontal health in patients who were treated with acrylic removable partial dentures over a 12-month period. The effects of storing dentures in chlorhexidine (CHX), fluoride, and water were analyzed. Salivary pH was taken as a measure of caries susceptibility and the gingival index (GI) and plaque index (PI) were used as measures of periodontal health.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted according to CONSORT guidelines on 100 patients requiring removable partial dentures. Patients in the control group, CHX group, and F group stored their dentures in water, CHX, and fluoride solutions overnight, respectively. The salivary pH, GI, and PI were recorded: (i) before treatment, (ii) 3 days, (iii) 3 months, (iv) 6 months, and (v) 1 year after the treatment.
Results: The salivary pH decreased, and PI and GI scores increased in all groups three days after insertion. However, a statistical significant increase in salivary pH and reduction in PI and GI scores at 3, 6, 12-month follow-up appointments were seen in the CHX and F groups compared to the control group.
Conclusion: The study shows that acrylics are capable of acting as anti-microbial power banks for improving gingival health and reducing caries susceptibility in patients.