Frequency of Inadequate Dimensions of Rest Seat Prepared on Molar Abutment Teeth for Cast Removable Partial Denture

Abstract

Background: Properly prepared occlusal rest seats are essential for the stability, support, and longevity of cobalt-chromium removable partial dentures. Inadequate rest seat dimensions can compromise load distribution, leading to prosthesis failure. However, deficiencies in clinical preparation remain common in dental practice.

Objectives: To evaluate the frequency and pattern of inadequate occlusal rest seat preparations on principal molar abutments in patients receiving cobalt-chromium removable partial dentures at the Department of Prosthodontics, Rehman College of Dentistry, Peshawar.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 96 patients aged 18–74 years. Rest seats were assessed for adequacy based on outline form, mesio-distal width, bucco-lingual width, depth, and over-all preparation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Frequencies and percentages were calculated, and the Chi-square test was applied to determine associations with age and gender.

Result: The highest frequency of inadequacy was observed in the mesio-distal dimension (66.7%), followed by the outline form (56.3%). Statistically significant associations were found between age group and inadequacies in out-line form (p = 0.038) and mesio-distal width (p = 0.041). No significant association was noted with gender.

Conclusions: A substantial proportion of occlusal rest seats were inadequately prepared, particularly in mesio-distal width and outline form, with greater deficiencies noted among middle-aged patients. These findings under-score the need for enhanced clinical supervision, improved training, and stricter adherence to biomechanical de-sign principles in prosthodontic education