Masticatory function in patients with extensive fixed cantilever prostheses

Eleven patients with complete maxillary dentures and 12-unit fixed partial dentures that included the mandibular canines were studied before and during specific intervals after prosthodontic treatment. Established methods for evaluation of oral function were used and the last examination was performed 30 months after treatment. All patients reported that their masticatory function had been substantially improved and there were no symptoms of dysfunction in the masticatory system. Masticatory efficiency improved after the prosthodontic treatment because both the number of cycles before the initial swallow and the total number of strokes including the time for completed mastication diminished after treatment. The occlusal force elevated after the prosthodontic treatment. Although great individual variations were recorded for all occasions and force levels, forces recorded on the extensions of the cantilever were similar to those on the canine regions.