What is typically done during the first RPD appointment?

During the first appointment for a removable partial denture (RPD), taking a diagnostic impression is a critical step. This process serves as an essential foundation for the treatment. The diagnostic impression is used to create a preliminary mold of the patient’s oral structures, which allows the clinician to assess how the RPD will fit and function in the oral cavity. It helps in identifying areas of undercuts, supports, and the overall arch form, which are crucial for the design of the RPD.

Obtaining this impression informs the clinician about the patient's anatomy and allows for an initial evaluation of the existing teeth, soft tissues, and any pathological conditions that may need to be addressed before moving forward with the prosthetic design. It is a necessary preliminary step that sets the stage for subsequent appointments, where record bases will be made, mouth preparations can occur, and ultimately, the RPD will be placed.