Preliminary functional impression for the mandibular complete denture

A technique for producing a preliminary impression of a resorbed edentulous mandibular ridge is presented. A 2-mm metal wire is adapted to the curve of the mandibular arch. A high-viscosity impression material is then formed to the wire and placed in the patient's mouth. Speech movements are used to functionally shape the material. Following polymerization, additional material is added to create extensions not captured in the first impression. A final wash using a low-viscosity silicone or polysulfide rubber material completes the impression. The resultant preliminary impression has the advantage of not being distorted by an ill-fitting stock tray or artificially manipulated by the clinician.