A modified treatment approach for fabricating a mandibular distal-extension partial denture: a clinical report

An altered cast impression technique is routinely used for fabricating distal-extension partial dentures. The advantages of an altered cast impression technique are that it evenly distributes stresses between hard and soft tissues and reduces stresses to the abutment teeth. However, there is some controversy among clinicians as to the technique and requirements of both tooth and tissue management of the distal-extension partial denture. A modified approach of fabricating a distal-extension partial denture is presented using a laboratory-processed functional reline method. The functional reline is performed after the removable partial denture is processed to perfect the fit of the denture base to the residual ridge. This enables the partial denture to be constructed from a cast made from a single impression and results in a prosthesis that is stable and has well-extended borders. Not only is it easy and less technique-sensitive for the operator, but it also results in increased comfort and reduced need for multiple adjustment visits for the patient.