Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What could be a consequence of poor retention in a dental prosthesis?

1. Increased overall satisfaction of the patient

2. Improved chewing efficiency

3. Higher risk of the prosthesis becoming dislodged

4. Enhanced comfort for the patient

The correct answer is: Higher risk of the prosthesis becoming dislodged

Choosing the consequence of poor retention in a dental prosthesis as an increased risk of the prosthesis becoming dislodged is accurate. Retention plays a critical role in ensuring that dental prostheses, such as dentures or crowns, remain securely in place during function, like chewing and speaking. If retention is inadequate, the prosthetic device may not fit properly, leading to instances where it can easily come loose, causing discomfort and complications for the patient. Inadequate retention can also lead to further issues, such as irritation of the surrounding tissues due to the movement of the prosthesis, as well as psychological impacts, like decreased confidence in the patient's ability to eat or speak without difficulty. When a prosthesis is dislodged, it can also necessitate adjustments or replacements, adding to the treatment complexity and cost. This understanding emphasizes the importance of proper design, fit, and material selection in ensuring optimal retention for dental prostheses, contributing to overall patient satisfaction, comfort, and chewing efficiency.