A Physiologic Impression Technique for Resorbed Mandibular Ridges

Abstract

Making a definitive impression of an edentulous arch can be challenging when the residual ridges present with less-than-ideal conditions. A procedure is described for the final impression of severely atrophied mandibular residual ridges especially for mandibular edentulous ridges with high muscle attachments. The objective is to develop a physiologic impression with maximum support of both hard and soft tissues. Tissues could be displaced during impression making and result in subsequent pathology, or they could be placed i.e. compression within the physiologic limits in order to maximize the support from the edentulous ridge. Close adaptation to the basal seat contributes to stability. This technique emphasizes on the concept of tissue placement and determination of the extent of mucobuccal denture extension which is achieved by the use of a close fitting tray and a viscous impression material. Final impression is made with an elastomeric impression material to capture the anatomic details of the tissues.