Surveyed Crowns in Removable Partial Dentures

Surveyed Crowns

• Surveyed crowns are specifically designed for use with removable partial dentures (RPDs)
• They are typically placed on abutment teeth to provide retention and stability to the prosthesis
• This design is crucial because it helps secure a secure fit and helps hold the RPD in place, improving its stability and functionality.

Indications for Surveyed Crowns

• Part of a removable partial denture (RPD) system. Used when a patient is missing teeth and the RPD needs support.
• Patients requiring RPDs with unique or specific tooth contours.
• Cases where the RPD needs more retention and stability.
• Cases involving compromised tooth structure that requires reinforcement
• Improvement of aesthetics without compromising function.
• Re-establishing a proper occlusal plane for overerupted teeth.

Treatment Sequence for Surveyed Crowns

• Diagnosis: Determine if a surveyed crown or crowns are required.
• Design: RPD design is based on support, stability, and retention
• Fabricated fixed restorations, followed by the removable prostheses to complete the process

Crown Design

• Retentive Features: Areas on the crown that help secure it within the dental arch.
• Guide Plane: A smooth, flat surface on the crown that guides the RPD in/out.
• Support: Occclusal or cingulum rest (rest seats) provide structural support.
• Surveying: The process of measuring the crown in the dental lab to ensure a correct fit with the partial denture framework.

Surveying Process

• Surveyor Tool: A specialized dental instrument used to measure the angle of abutment teeth and determine the appropriate crown design.
• Steps Involved:
  • Impression: The dentist takes an impression of the teeth.
  • Surveying: The dental model is placed in a surveyor to identify the path of insertion, undercuts, and irregularities.
  • Design: The surveyed crown is designed based on the surveyor's guidance.
  • Fabrication: The lab crafts the crown and adjusts its fit

Surveyed Crowns - Treatment Sequence

• Always include the RPD design during the diagnosis and treatment plan appointments.
• Survey and determine the Maximum Anatomical Position (MAP) for the RPD.

Benefits of Surveyed Crowns

• Enhanced Functionality: Provides support and stability for the removable partial dentures.
• Improved Aesthetics: When made with materials similar to natural teeth (like porcelain or ceramic), the aesthetic outcome is good.
• Durability: The strong structure ensures long-term use, supporting overall dental health
• Customization: Crown is custom-designed to fit the patient's individual anatomy and needs

Challenges and Considerations

• Cost: Surveyed crowns can be more expensive due to complex design and materials.
• Time: The process includes multiple steps (impressions, surveys, lab work) and takes longer than basic restorations.
• Maintenance: Regular follow-ups are necessary to ensure the crown and surrounding structures remain healthy.

This quiz focuses on surveyed crowns used in removable partial dentures (RPDs). It covers their design, indications for use, and the treatment sequence involved for optimal stability and functionality. Test your knowledge on improving aesthetics and securing proper occlusion with surveyed crowns.