Association between gonial angle on orthopantomogram and reline frequency in removable partial denture wearers

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Removable dentures are common prosthetic solutions.
• Residual ridge resorption necessitates frequent relining procedures.
• Improper pressure distribution from dentures contributes to resorption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between the gonial angle on orthopantomogram (GAO) and occlusal force.
• To determine the association between GAO and reline frequency in removable partial denture wearers.
• To understand factors influencing reline intervals in patients with free-end defects.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-five patients with removable partial dentures for free-end defects were analyzed.
• Gonial angle on orthopantomogram (GAO) was measured from panoramic radiographs.
• Mean relining interval was calculated, and associations with GAO and other factors were assessed.

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation was found between mean relining interval and GAO (rs = 0.335).
• Multivariate analysis confirmed GAO as a significant explanatory variable for reline frequency.
• Fewer remaining opposing teeth and less occlusal support showed weak negative correlations with reline intervals.

Conclusions:

• GAO is a significant factor influencing the frequency of denture relining.
• Patients with a smaller GAO may experience increased residual ridge resorption, requiring more frequent relines.
• GAO measurement could aid in predicting reline needs for removable partial denture patients.