>>> Literature Review

Below are short summaries of the following articles and publications of particular interest to clinicians recently published in dental journals and periodicals.

"Equipoise - The Proven Partial Denture System"
by Jerome Goodman, DDS, c1989, 106 pages, 87 illustrations, 66 color photos. Equipoise Dental Prosthetics, Inc. 4750 SouthOcean Boulevard #402, Highland Beach, Florida, 33487.

The Equipoise system of partial denture design is probably one of the best-kept secrets in dentistry, and Dr. Goodman's long-awaited text on the subject was well worth the wait. Basically, Equipoise is a philosophy stressing the design of partial dentures which preserve and protect the remaining dentition. The Equipoise semi-precision "E" clasp and precision "C" & "L" clasp are specifically designed so that all masticatory forces are oriented down the long axis of the tooth. The clasping system is simple to utilize, extremely aesthetic, and elegant in design. Dr. Goodman's step-by-step approach and abundance of examples makes the equipoise system exceptionally easy to learn. The book's major emphasis is protecting the dentition with proper rest seat preparation and clasp design. However, nothing is mentioned about designing the framework to allow for proper gingival-framework clearance to promote periodontal health. Overall, the Equipoise system offers a logical, well engineered approach for removable partial dentures, and many MDEG evaluators consider the Equipoise partial their "bread-and-butter" design. It should be considered a "Must Read" for any dentist who prescribes partial dentures for his patients.

Helpful Partial Videos

Equipoise , 85 Portland Ave. P.O. Box 425 Bergenfield, NJ 07621

Long-Time INTERFACE readers will recall our review of the excellent book detailing the diagnosis, indications, and construction of Equipoise partial dentures WAY back in issue #9. We have not changed our opinion since then of the value and superiority of this design of partial over more traditional systems, even including most designs which rely on complicated and hard-to-repair precision attachments. The Equipoise institute currently offers two short video-tapes which are meant to be viewed both by patients who are candidates for the restoration and by doctors or dental laboratories who require an introduction to the principles of Equipoise. Our evaluators found the patient video particularly helpful, as most patients readily grasp the concepts involved due to the simplicity and concise nature of the material. If you are tired of your partials losing retention at each recall appointment end adjusting clasps until they break off in your hand, our suggestion for you is to call the Equipoise Institute at (800) 9994950 and order the book ($80.00) and tapes ($29.95 including a coupon for $25.00 credit towards the construction of an Equipoise Partial). It will be the BEST move you ever make toward better and more problem-free partials!