Evaluating Knowledge of Complete Denture Fabrication Procedures among General Dentists: A Questionnaire-Based Study

Background: Fabrication of complete dentures is a fundamental prosthodontic skill for restoring function and esthetics in edentulous patients. However, the knowledge and confidence of general dentists in performing each procedural step can vary considerably. Objective: To assess the knowledge and self-reported confidence of general dentists regarding complete denture fabrication procedures using a structured questionnaire. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 126 general dentists. The questionnaire comprised demographic details and 15 knowledge-based items covering primary impressions, border molding, neutral zone concept, mandibular retention, facebow transfer, articulator transfer, SPA factors, try-in evaluation, laboratory procedures, post- insertion management, balanced occlusion, follow-up protocols, relining/rebasing, and adequacy of undergraduate training. Responses were recorded on a five-point Likert scale and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Most respondents were aged above 40 years (55.6%), with 35.7% having more than 10 years of clinical experience. A majority reported confidence in primary impressions (84.1%), border molding (82.5%), and the neutral zone concept (78.6%). Confidence was moderate for balanced occlusion (64.3%) and facebow transfer (46.0%), but lower for articulator transfer (42.9%). Although 87.3% routinely provided post-insertion instructions, only 68.3% consistently scheduled follow-up appointments. Undergraduate training was considered adequate for complete denture fabrication by 81.7% of participants. Conclusion: The study revealed generally high self-reported knowledge in most aspects of complete denture fabrication, but notable gaps were identified in facebow and articulator transfer, balanced occlusion, and follow-up practices. These findings highlight the need for targeted continuing education to strengthen competencies in these critical areas