ENHANCING STABILITY: A REVIEW OF VARIOUS OCCLUSAL SCHEMES IN COMPLETE DENTURE PROSTHESIS

Abstract

A practical approach to rehabilitate the edentulous patients to optimal occlusion is not an easy task. Complete denture prosthesis when compared to natural teeth have relatively unstable bases and have no proprioception comparable to the periodontal ligament of the natural tooth and acts as the single unit instead of an individual tooth. To enhance the stability of the complete dentures, the philosophy of the balanced occlusion has been proposed. Balanced occlusion in dentures implies occlusal contacts that contribute to equilibrium of the denture bases on their respective ridges.The search for the ideal occlusal scheme, one which provides stability, comfort, function and esthetics is still underway. While there is little research to support one occlusal scheme over the other, it is known that the prosthesis is less efficient than natural teeth and the ability to chew with it varies with the individual, regardless of the occlusal schemes. Poor oral awareness makes it more difficult for a patient to adapt to the function with the prosthesis especially one with a complicated occlusal scheme. This article reviews several occlusal schemes, their characteristics, recommendations for usage along with their advantages and disadvantages.