The quality of written instructions for dental prostheses in China.

PURPOSE: To investigate the quality of written instructions for dental prostheses in China, including metal-ceramic fixed restorations and removable partial dentures (RPDs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 1600 prepiloted questionnaires were distributed to five major commercial dental laboratories in different regions in China. The opinions of dental technicians on the written instructions provided by dentists were investigated. In addition, this study also revealed the technicians' responses to poorly written instructions.

RESULTS: Seven percent of the written instructions clarified the disinfection status of the impressions or casts, while 32% of the instructions provided general patient information (e.g., gender and age). In cases of metal-ceramic fixed restorations, percentages of written instructions specifying shade, ceramic veneering area, and margin design were 72%, 20%, and 9%, respectively. In fixed partial denture cases, 60% of written instructions provided the number of pontics, while 22% specified the pontic design. In the case of RPDs, 90% of instructions showed the type and position of clasps, 88% provided connector design, while 68% mentioned information regarding the artificial teeth. Dental technicians claimed that 78% of the written instructions involved were inadequately prescribed to some extent, but only about one-third of them would contact dentists for clarification.

CONCLUSIONS: Written instructions are not well prescribed in many cases. This situation may jeopardize the quality of prosthodontic treatment. It is necessary to shape responsible policy and mandatory professional guidelines for prosthodontic treatment procedures including dental laboratory services.