title: The qualitative assessment of cobalt-chromium castings for partial dentures.
abstract: Criteria for objective assessment of cobalt-chromium castings have been developed. A random sample of 21 commercial dental laboratories specialising in the production of cobalt-chromium castings was selected. Identical casts and instructions for the construction of a lower partial denture framework were sent to each of them. The resultant castings were assessed according to specific criteria relating to detailed design features. Only one laboratory produced a casting which conformed completely with the design instructions. Significant defects were found in a high proportion of castings. The range of charges was from 28 pounds to 85 pounds. The results of the qualitative assessments suggest only a very weak relationship between laboratory charges and the quality of cobalt-chromium castings. Suggestions are made for minimum standards that may be applied in clinical practice.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Barsby
authors.forename: W D
authors.initials: WD
authors.lastname: Schwarz
mesh_terms: D002858:Chromium Alloys; D003734:Dental Casting Investment; D003779:Denture Design / Q000592:standards*; D003781:Denture Retention; D003832:Denture, Partial, Removable / Q000592:standards*; D007754:Laboratories, Dental; D011786:Quality Control; D013499:Surface Properties
chemical_list: D002858:Chromium Alloys; D003734:Dental Casting Investment