The posterior palatal seal. A review

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Anatomy

Background:

• The posterior palatal seal is essential for the retention and stability of complete dentures.
• Understanding the anatomical borders of the posterior palatal seal area is critical for effective prosthesis fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the posterior palatal seal area and define its anatomical borders.
• To evaluate and compare different methods for achieving a posterior palatal seal in complete dentures.

Main Methods:

• Review and description of three techniques for creating a posterior palatal seal: scraping the cast, selective loading impression, and physiological impression.
• Discussion of the advantages and disadvantages associated with each method.

Main Results:

• The posterior palatal seal area and its anatomical boundaries were defined.
• Each of the three impression techniques was described, along with their inherent challenges.

Conclusions:

• The physiological impression technique, particularly when utilizing wax, is considered the most accessible method for achieving a competent posterior palatal seal.
• This technique requires the least amount of specialized skill and clinical experience for successful implementation.