[Complete denture occlusion considered from occlusal contacts during mastication]

Area of Science:

• Prosthodontics and Dental Materials Science
• Biomechanical Engineering in Dentistry

Context:

• Complete denture patients often present with age-related changes like severe alveolar bone resorption and thin mucosa.
• Current prosthodontic practices increasingly utilize bilateral balanced occlusion schemes.
• The functional differences between full balanced occlusion and lingualized occlusion require further investigation, especially in diverse patient populations.

Purpose:

• To compare the functional outcomes and patient adaptability of full balanced occlusion versus lingualized occlusion in complete denture wearers.
• To evaluate the suitability of lingualized occlusion for edentulous patients with significant anatomical challenges.
• To address the specific considerations for lingualized occlusion in the context of the Japanese diet and masticatory function.

Summary:

• Bilateral balanced occlusion demonstrates functional superiority in preventing denture dislocation and guiding eccentric movements, enhancing stability during mastication.
• Lingualized occlusion provides greater accommodation and correction, making it more suitable for edentulous patients with severe alveolar bone resorption and unstable occlusal relationships.
• The efficacy of lingualized occlusion for Japanese edentulous patients, considering their dietary habits and masticatory sense, remains uncertain and requires further evaluation.

Impact:

• This study highlights the trade-offs between denture stability and patient adaptability in choosing occlusal schemes for complete dentures.
• Findings suggest that lingualized occlusion may be a preferred approach for managing complex patient anatomies, despite potential challenges.
• The research underscores the need for developing standardized methods to assess masticatory function and patient satisfaction with different occlusal concepts.