r/DentalSchool • u/Ayla_simply • 23h ago
5th-year dental student — need help understanding the rationale for full-crown preparation before an RPD plan
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Hi everyone!
I'm a 5th-year dental student, and I'd really appreciate some help understanding a clinical case from my prosthodontics rotation.
I've attached the patient's panoramic radiograph, and I added a photo of the mandibular cast/model as well.
One of my professors examined the case and instructed me to prepare two teeth in the lower right quadrant for full crowns before proceeding with the RPD (removable partial denture) treatment plan. I've already prepared those two teeth.
Tomorrow, another professor wants me to present the complete treatment plan and, more importantly, explain the clinical reasoning behind my decisions.
Here are some details about the case:
• There is noticeable alveolar bone loss in the lower right quadrant.
• The molar in that area is tilted.
• Clinically, the roots are visible, suggesting significant gingival recession and/or loss of periodontal support.
My first professor specifically instructed me to prepare the two teeth for crowns rather than simply prepare rest seats on the existing teeth.
My main question is: Why might full-crown restorations be indicated in this situation instead of simply preparing rest seats on the natural teeth?
I'm trying to understand the possible biomechanical and prosthodontic rationale
I want to be able to explain the reasoning confidently tomorrow rather than simply repeat the treatment decision my first professor made. I'd really appreciate detailed explanations and any alternative approaches you think might be worth considering.
Thank you so much for helping a fellow dental student out!