Longitudinal study on occlusal force distribution in lower distal-extension removable partial dentures with conus...

The purpose of this study was to examine longitudinal changes of the occlusal force distribution in lower distal-extension removable partial dentures with the conus crown telescopic system. Occlusal force applied to the denture and forces transmitted to the retainers were measured on several separate occasions from the insertion of new dentures to about 3 months after. The occlusal force distribution ratio to the retainers was calculated when a load of 20 N was applied to the denture. The results are summarized as follows: (i) The more posterior the loading point of occlusal force, the smaller was the ratio. When the occlusal force was applied to the most anterior artificial tooth, the ratio was 65-100% of the occlusal force. (ii) As the denture wearing time proceeded, the ratio was decreased. The smaller the ratio, the greater was the rate of its decrease.