Using cephalometry to evaluate maxillomandibular relationships in complete denture construction

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Long-term denture use leads to facial changes due to occlusal wear and residual ridge resorption.
• Patients with complete dentures may develop Angle's Class III occlusal relationships.
• Facial collapse can complicate the determination of proper mandibular positioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a clinical method for determining the correct mandibular position in long-term denture wearers.
• To assess the efficacy of this method in patients with Angle's Class III occlusal relationships and significant facial collapse.
• To document changes in maxillomandibular relationships during denture fabrication.

Main Methods:

• Complete dentures were fabricated for 12 patients using standard procedures.
• Acrylic resin blocks were used on mandibular posterior bases instead of teeth initially.
• Maxillomandibular relationships were recorded, and cephalometric analysis was performed before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• The clinical method allowed for the determination of the correct mandibular relationship.
• Changes in maxillomandibular relationships were successfully recorded.
• The procedure proved effective even in patients with extreme facial collapse.

Conclusions:

• A careful denture fabrication procedure can accurately determine the correct mandibular relationship.
• This method is viable for long-term denture wearers experiencing significant facial changes.
• Properly fabricated dentures can restore functional occlusion and facial aesthetics.