Charles C. Swoope

Studies of residual ridge resorption. Part I. Use of panoramic radiographs for evaluation and classification of mandibular resorption

Abstract This article describes a method of estimating the severity of mandibular bone resorption by using the mental foramen and the inferior border of the mandible, as they appear in panoramic radiographs, as reference points. Measurements of 260 images in panoramic radiographs of normal mandibles reveal that, in a high percentage of films, regardless of the usual magnification or distortion of the images, the lower edge of the mental foramen lies very close to a line dividing the mandible into thirds. By using the approximate ratio of 3:1, the original height of the mandible can be conveniently estimated from the height of the lower edge of the foramen above the inferior border of the mandible. The reduction in height of the bone can then also be estimated. It is suggested that this method of estimating and describing the degree of bone resorption may facilitate the study of this disease by providing an anatomic basis for classifying or grouping patients affected to varying degrees.

The Cornell Medical Index as a prognostic aid for complete denture patients

Abstract A population of 402 complete-denture patients has been evaluated. Postinsertion adjustments and the patient satisfaction score were measured against the patients Cornell Medical Index score. No correlation was established between postinsertion adjustments and CMI scores. A definite correlation was established, however, between increase in total CMI score above 25 and decrease in patient satisfaction. Further, a correlation was also established between a score of three to six on page 4 of the CMI and decreased patient satisfaction. There is evidence to support the value of education of complete-denture patients concerning the relationship of emotional problems and denture problems.

Counseling and related factors influencing satisfaction with dentures

treatment makes the situation more complex. Criteria for technically adequate dentures exist, but they do not give sufficient recognition to patientmediated factors such as hard and soft tissue response and the opinion of the patient about the treatment.X8 Bolender, Swoope, and Smith ~ have shown that patients with a high probability of emotional problems, as determined by a health questionnaire, are not as satisfied with dentures as are those with less probability of such problems. This same study has indicated that discussion of the relationship between emotional problems and denture problems with denture patients identified as having potential emotional problems may have increased their satis

Studies of residual ridge resorption. Part II. The relationship of dietary calcium and phosphorus to residual ridge resorption

Abstract This report presents results of an original investigation of the relationship between dietary calcium and phosphorus and alveolar bone resorption in edentulous patients. The diets of subjects with minimal bone resorption were compared with the diets of subjects with severe alveolar destruction. The results indicate a positive correlation among low calcium intake, calcium/phosphorus imbalance, and severe ridge resorption. Relationships among actual volume intake of these minerals, recommended allowances, and clinical findings were described. Emphasis was placed on the importance of considering dietary factors in the diagnosis and treatment of prosthodontic problems which arise from the excessive resorption of residual ridges.

Lingualized occlusion for removable prosthodontics

Lingualized occlusion provides a useful combination of several occlusal concepts. Many advantages of anatomic and nonanatomic occlusions are retained. Adjustment to compensate for minor changes in vertical and centric relation is readily accomplished. Satisfactory occlusion is easily obtained, and balanced occlusion can be accomplished. The lingualized occlusal concept is not a panacea, and all other procedures still must be carefully executed.

The effect of cusp form and occlusal surface area on denture base deformation

Abstract A method has been described which will permit separate evaluation of the effect of cusp form and area of the occlusal table on deformation of the denture base. The deformation of the denture base during various test procedures was continuously recorded.

Prosthetic management of resected edentulous mandibles

Abstract Edentulous patients with partially resected mandibles are best treated with uncomplicated appliances. Elaborate mechanical devices are unnecessary when fundamental principles of denture construction are followed. The ramp provided on the maxillary denture serves as a training device for returning the mandible to a functional position. Patients adjust well to these appliances. Through determination and practice, they learn adequate control of mandibular movements. Mastication generally is possible after a short period of accommodation.

Predicting denture success

Abstract Many dentists are not very perceptive of the wishes and feelings of patients. We tend to treat all patients the same, with the same scheduling, same inadequate preparation, and the same fee. We can provide better care than this. We can enhance our prognostic capability for more accurate prediction. We can tailor our treatment to meet the specific needs of individual patients. We can adjust our fees to provide compensation for the time spent. The end result will be an increased number of patients who are satisfied with their prosthodontic care.

Complete denture prosthodontics—1998

lh ere is a great need for prosthodontic care in the United States at this time, and this need is expected to increase during the next 25 years. It was estimated that, in 1962, there were 111 million adults between the ages of 18 to 79 years. Of this group, 20 million (18 per cent) were completely edentulous. An additional 8.9 million (8 per cent) were edentulous in one jaw.l The general population continues to increase and so does the patient-dentist ratio. There were 150 million persons in the United States in 1953, increasing to 198 million in 1967 (an increase of 24.5 per cent). The dentist-patient ratio was 50:100,000 in 1950 and 46:100,000 in 1967.’ The need for dental care increases while the dentist-patient ratio decreases. Increasing dental school enrollment will make only minor impact on this need for care. Improvement of the quality of life for the American people has been a primary concern of national and local governments. Protecting and improving health standards by providing easy access to care are important to life quality.” The problem of how to train capable specialists to provide this care is the purpose of this conference. Other problems, such as how they can function most productively and where they are needed, must also be answered. In order to provide care for the great numbers of partially or completely edentulous patients, more effective and efficient methods must be developed. The delivery of treatment must be accomplished in a manner that is acceptable to the public and the dental profession. This cannot be done by ignoring the sensitivity to patient needs which is essential for successful denture service. Patients who have undergone the trauma of tooth loss cannot be treated with only technical procedures. In our quest for efficiency and minimal cost, the person being rehabilitated cannot be ignored. Each of these patients will bring with him a frame of reference based on previous experiences, as well as a physical makeup which is unique to him. The success of therapy will depend on the ability of the prosthodontist to provide technical excellence in this context of existing factors. Restorative treatment of these large groups of patients is the challenge of dentistry. ’ Because of the special problems and

Nutrition analysis of prosthodontic patients

A program of nutrition training has been included in the undergraduate curriculum of the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Data obtained indicated that involved patients were receptive and that many showed improvement in dietary habits. Nutritional analysis and counseling can be introduced into a private-practice environment with very little increase in the dentists work time. Procedures have been suggested that are efficient and effective. It is recommended that nutritional analysis and counseling be used routinely on all prosthodontic patients. This training should be included in the dental school curriculum so that students can become competent and comfortable in its use. To meet this objective, in-service training programs for faculty members are required. Careful attention to systemic factors such as nutrition will allow dentists to provide an enhanced level of care for patients. Concern for the general health of patients must continue to be a necessary part of prosthodontic care.