Two-step impression for atrophic mandibular ridge

The clinical difficulties encountered while treating edentulous patients with atrophic mandibular ridges are legion. Capturing tissue details while making an impression of a resorbed mandibular ridge poses a great clinical challenge. Extending the denture bases adequately to cover all of the available supporting tissues is one of the prime requisite. Surgical approach is necessary only when the patient is incapable of wearing a conventional denture. This article describes a technique of making an impression of an atrophic mandibular ridge by the use of monophase and light-bodied impression material where surgical options such as implants, vestibuloplasty or ridge augmentation may not be feasible. This procedure results in improved stability and retention of the denture base.