Post–extraction, mandibular resorption to the level of basal bone may cause the mental foramen to become involved in the denture bearing area. The subsequent crushing of the mental nerve by a functioning lower denture can cause discomfort. This RCT looked at 2 methods of dealing with this problem and a control (3 dentures for each participant). The primary objective of the study was to provide evidence of the patients' preference of denture. The hypothesis that one of the dentures would be preferred by the patients was investigated. The null hypothesis was that none of the dentures would be preferred above the others by the patients.
Methods:
A sample size calculation yielded 65 patients. 69 patients were recruited. 3 dentures were made for each patient. Denture A was made from a novel impression procedure, denture C was a control made from a routine impression procedure and denture B was made on a cast on which a metal foil had been adapted over the region of the mental foramen. The 3 dentures were given in random order and participants asked to assess them. The patients' final preference of denture was the primary outcome measure.
Results:
66 participants completed the trial. 33(50%) choose denture A; 19(29%) choose B; and 14(21%) C. The 99% CI for a random choice of denture is 19% to 47%. The percentage choosing denture A lies outside of this range. The null hypothesis is therefore rejected in preference to the alternative, namely that denture A is preferred by patients.
Conclusion:
Patients showed an elevated preference for the dentures made from the selective pressure impression.
Dunhill Medical Trust funded this research by a research grant.