A simplified approach to optimizing denture stability with lingualized occlusion.

Abstract

Occlusal prematurities are destructive and destabilizing influences in complete dentures. Unless denture bases are adequately and evenly stabilized, it is virtually impossible to properly equilibrate the occlusion. One reason is that all artificial teeth in a denture unit are physically bound into a single denture base and literally act as a single tooth. Therefore, a single point of occlusal prematurity disrupts the entire denture occlusion and negatively affects the denture base stability and retention, preventing proper equilibration. This article describes a step-by-step approach using an intraoral central bearing point tracing device and lingualized occlusion to achieve an effective and simplified equilibration.