Soft denture liners' effect on the masticatory function in patients wearing complete dentures: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Complete dentures can present functional challenges for edentulous patients.
• Soft denture liners are proposed to improve denture comfort and function.
• Objective masticatory performance and muscle activity data are crucial for evaluating denture effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the impact of soft denture liners on masticatory performance and muscle activity in complete denture wearers.
• To evaluate the efficacy of soft denture liners compared to conventional denture base materials.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of randomized controlled trials and cross-over studies.
• Literature search conducted in electronic databases up to September 2014.
• Six studies were included after rigorous screening and assessment of 176 identified records.

Main Results:

• Soft denture liners demonstrated improved masticatory function in denture wearers compared to conventional materials.
• Long-term silicone liners showed significant improvements in mastication parameters.
• Clinical and methodological diversity necessitated a narrative approach to findings.

Conclusions:

• Soft denture liners enhance masticatory efficiency in patients with complete dentures.
• Further high-quality research is recommended to confirm findings and strengthen clinical significance.
• Soft liners represent a valuable option for improving functional outcomes in complete denture wearers.