Tube Teeth on RPD Framework
Posted on 03/19/2012
Tube teeth can be best described as metal posts incorporated into the framework (i.e. waxed and cast as part of the framework) that support acrylic, porcelain or composite teeth. Please see picture below.
The advantages of tube teeth include:
1. Esthetics: Tube teeth can provide superior esthetics when compared to mesh supported teeth as the tooth does not require a pink acrylic base to connect to the framework. The tooth is placed directly over the post and held through mechanical retention. This allows for a more natural esthetic look.
2. Bite: Patient's vertical dimensions (bite) can be maintained with time even when using acrylic teeth. This is because the tube tooth acts as a metal stop against the opposing to maintain the vertical and prevents excessive ware of the acrylic tooth.
Tube teeth have become less popular over time and are not very common today. This is mostly due to the following disadvantages:
1. Fracture Rate: If the occlusal forces are heavy or if the denture tooth hole was not designed properly by the technician, the metal tube can fracture.
2. Reline Limitation: The metal of the tube tooth cannot be relined so the residual ridge must be fully healed.
3. Cost: Labs generally charge per tube tooth which can add significant cost to the framework. This cost cannot always be passed on to the patient.
The advantages of tube teeth include:
1. Esthetics: Tube teeth can provide superior esthetics when compared to mesh supported teeth as the tooth does not require a pink acrylic base to connect to the framework. The tooth is placed directly over the post and held through mechanical retention. This allows for a more natural esthetic look.
2. Bite: Patient's vertical dimensions (bite) can be maintained with time even when using acrylic teeth. This is because the tube tooth acts as a metal stop against the opposing to maintain the vertical and prevents excessive ware of the acrylic tooth.
Tube teeth have become less popular over time and are not very common today. This is mostly due to the following disadvantages:
1. Fracture Rate: If the occlusal forces are heavy or if the denture tooth hole was not designed properly by the technician, the metal tube can fracture.
2. Reline Limitation: The metal of the tube tooth cannot be relined so the residual ridge must be fully healed.
3. Cost: Labs generally charge per tube tooth which can add significant cost to the framework. This cost cannot always be passed on to the patient.
