k. Compound Knife (KNIFE, DENTAL COMPOUND). The compound knife is
useful in trimming modeling plastic, impression materials, and waxes. Its handle is
designed to accept interchangeable blades.
l. Mounted and Unmounted Stones, Points, and Abrasive Disks. These
motor-driven rotary cutting and abrasive instruments are used in modifying natural teeth
and adjusting and finishing dentures.
Section III. PROCEDURES
5-5.
GENERAL
The procedures followed in providing removable prosthodontic care vary with the
prosthodontist. Common procedures and guidelines for the dental specialist as an
assistant in removable prosthodontics are described in this section.
5-6.
DUTIES OF THE DENTAL SPECIALIST
The general clinical duties of the dental specialist apply to the dental specialist
assigned to the prosthodontic section. For example, preparation to receive a patient
begins immediately following the dismissal of the previous patient. All evidence of
treatment of that patient should be removed. Impressions, casts, dentures, and other
materials used by the previous patient should be taken to the laboratory or placed in a
suitable location out of sight of the patient. Records, instruments, supplies, and
equipment required by the new patient must be assembled and placed in a convenient
location for the dental officer.
a. Specific duties require the dental specialist to be familiar with techniques and
materials used by the prosthodontist. If either modeling plastic or reversible
hydrocolloid impression material is indicated for use, the dental specialist should
prepare this material ahead of time.
b. In addition, the dental specialist should learn to work with patients who are
under stress. Some patients will accept dentures and adjust to them easily. However,
other patients will not accept dentures and will not adjust to them easily. The dental
specialist should be aware of these psychological differences and guide his
conversations with the patient accordingly.
MD0503
5-10