Functional adaptability to changes in lower denture shape

Forces exerted on the right and left lingual and buccal flanges of Kennedy Type I mandibular dentures were studied using an 8 channel recording technique, during resting, swallowing, talking, reading and simulated mastication. The effects of adaptation, head position and incremental thickening of the flanges were determined. Highest forces were recorded when swallowing, with smaller differences between the other activities. Lingual forces were higher than buccal, and posterior forces higher than anterior ones. There was a highly significant relationship between increases in flange thickness of 2 and 3mm and increases in peak forces. Evidence for adaptation and effects related to head position was weaker.