[Cases of prosthodontic tissue reconditioning in geriatric dentistry]

In elderly patients, recurrent fractures of the lower denture must raise the question of a neurological deficit as cause of the occluso-prosthetic imbalance. Hypotonicity of the peri-oral mastication musculature, especially the masseters, may explain the alteration of the prosthetic supporting surface due to shriveling of the mandibular arch, along with an osseogenesis at the point of flexion of the mandible. The rest and activity muscular imbalance, resulting from unilateral mastication, may cause lingual dysfunction and deviation of the tongue at rest. If this problem is not controlled within an acceptable period of time, one should expect psychological, biological and physiological consequences affecting the patient's physical condition. The restoration of the denture fracture is insufficient. Reconditioning must be performed in order to replace the existing prosthesis in the patient's function, allowing him/her to recover a normal psychological, biological and physiological balance. In conclusion, in geriatric dentistry, the objective of reconditioning is, not only to restore a functional occlusion, but also the psychological, biological and physiological balance of the patient. This is an unvaluable advantage, especially if this contributes to maintain or restore an often precarious health.