Método tradicional versus simplificado en impresiones para prótesis total removible: evaluación crítica de la evidencia

Abstract

Introduction: Inspite of the great advances in dentistry, aging populations imply that there are still significant
numbers of edentulous people worldwide. In most cases, implant-assisted prosthetic rehabilitation is the best
solution. However, economic issues constrain access to this therapeutic approach, meaning that conventional
removable prosthetics continue to be the most frequent treatment. In the removable denture making process, the
so-called traditional method has been widely taught and used. It involves taking two impressions: a preliminary
one followed by a definitive one (or functional). The simplified method constructs the prosthesis directly from
the first impression obtained with a stock tray, without the need of a second impression. Purpose: To review the
scientific evidence comparing both methods in terms of patient satisfaction, clinical quality, and masticatory
performance and capacity. Results: No advantages have been found in favor of the traditional method regarding
the four variables selected. Conclusions: According to the available information, the traditional method of
taking impressions for complete removable dental prostheses does not provide significantly superior clinical
results when compared to those obtained using the simplified method in terms of clinical quality, patient
satisfaction, performance and masticatory capacity.