Functional modification of acrylic resin monoplane occlusions

Area of Science:

• Prosthodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Monoplane occlusions are utilized in dentures to simplify prosthetic design.
• Understanding occlusal wear patterns is crucial for denture longevity and patient function.
• Previous studies have quantified wear, but classification of wear patterns requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify anteroposterior wear patterns in acrylic-resin monoplane occlusions.
• To identify variations from the original monoplane occlusion over time.
• To analyze lateral asymmetry in the maxillary occlusal plane wear.

Main Methods:

• Recalled patients with acrylic-resin monoplane occlusions over a 6-month to 6-year period.
• Obtained dental casts to analyze the anteroposterior wear patterns.
• Classified wear patterns based on recognized prosthetic occlusal plane forms (Monson curve, reverse curve, monoplane persistence).

Main Results:

• Identified classifiable wear patterns, including Monson curves, reverse curves, and persistence of the original monoplane.
• Observed significant lateral asymmetry in the maxillary occlusal plane wear in most patients.
• The lateral component of wear was not assessed in this study.

Conclusions:

• Acrylic-resin monoplane occlusions exhibit predictable, classifiable wear patterns over time.
• Lateral asymmetry in occlusal wear is a common finding in patients with monoplane dentures.
• Further research could explore the functional implications of these wear patterns and asymmetry.