Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

In what situation is RPD particularly advantageous over FPD?

1. Severe tooth decay

2. Multiple missing teeth

3. Poor oral health

4. Improved aesthetics is required

The correct answer is: Poor oral health

Removable Partial Dentures (RPD) are particularly advantageous in cases of poor oral health. This is because RPDs offer a less invasive option for patients who may have compromised periodontal tissues or inadequate bone support for fixed restorations. When the condition of the patient’s oral health is less than ideal, such as in the presence of periodontal disease or other oral health issues, RPD can be easier to manage and care for compared to Fixed Partial Dentures (FPD), which require more rigorous maintenance of the remaining natural teeth and periodontal status. Moreover, RPDs do not put additional stress on the remaining teeth, as they distribute the occlusal load more evenly across the dental arch. This is particularly beneficial for patients with existing oral health challenges who might not be candidates for more invasive procedures or who may not want the additional commitment associated with FPDs, which often requires the alteration of adjacent teeth. In contrast, situations such as severe tooth decay, multiple missing teeth, or improved aesthetics might be better addressed with other treatment options depending on the specifics of the case. For example, severe tooth decay may necessitate extractions or treatments that compromise the structural integrity of the teeth, making RPD a possible solution but not the only consideration. Multiple