Quality of communication between dental practitioners and dental technicians for fixed prosthodontics in Ireland

The aim of this investigation was to examine the quality of communication between dental practitioners and dental technicians for fixed prosthodontics in Ireland. A pre-piloted questionnaire was distributed to large commercial laboratories in Ireland. Information was sought relating to the quality of written instructions and use of impression trays and materials for two forms of fixed prosthodontics--full veneer porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns (PFMs), and conventional fixed partial dentures (FPDs). Information was received relating to 241 items (145 PFMs, 96 FPDs). All items were funded privately. Using pre-determined grading criteria, poor or no written instructions were provided in 55% of cases examined (n=128). Fifty-four per cent of master impressions were (n=129) made using a plastic stock tray. Three-quarters of written instructions for FPDs (n=73) did not specify the number of pontics to be included in its design. Despite the existence of various legal and ethical guidelines relating to the prescription and fabrication of fixed prostheses, more than one-half of the written instructions and master impressions examined in this study were inadequate.