How to Fabricate An Esthetic Transitional Partial

January 2012—

Craig Nelson, CDT, shares his technique for fabricating a truly lifelike transitional partial thanks to its form, line angles and positioning of the denture teeth. He worked with Dr. Steve Ratcliff at Spear Education in Scottsdale, AZ, on the case and it exemplifies how attention to detail, use of new materials and good communication with the dental team can result in a partial that disappears in the oral environment.

STEP 1: Dr. Ratcliff sent impressions, along with the prescription and pictures to show final coloration and surface texture. The impressions were box poured and articulated. (See photo 1)

STEP 2: Nelson evaluated the remaining dentition to select the teeth; the size and shape looked identical to Heraeus Mondial i Anterior L20. Since the patient's mouth was severely crowded, the team decided to replicate this condition in the restoration for the most natural results. (See photo 2)

STEP...