Use of technique metal in preclinical education: effect on student products and performance.

As a result of the theft of dental students' gold issue, use of a less expensive technique alloy in a preclinical course was evaluated as a substitute for conventional gold alloy. Three-unit all-metal fixed partial dentures were fabricated by sophomore dental students as part of a fixed prosthodontics preclinical technique course. One group of students used a conventional gold alloy and a second group used a technique alloy. Except for solder joint appearance, similarities in student performance and perceptions indicated that technique alloy is an acceptable, cost-effective substitute for gold in preclinical courses.