Effectiveness of silicone-based resilient denture liners on masticatory function: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

ObjectivesThis randomised controlled trial aimed to compare the masticatory function between the silicone-based resilient denture liner and conventional denture among edentulous patients. MethodsThe trial included edentulous patients who were willing to have a new set of complete dentures. Participants were randomly assigned to receive mandibular complete dentures with either a 1) conventional denture base (CD group) or (2) silicone-based resilient denture liner (RD group). Masticatory performance (evaluated with gummy jelly) and the maximum occlusal force were measured at baseline, on final adjustment, and at 3 months after the final adjustment. The outcomes were analyzed using two-way mixed analysis of variance and a paired t-test. The statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. ResultsThe masticatory performance was lower in the RD group than in the CD group; it increased significantly over time in the CD group, but not in the RD group. The maximum occlusal force in the RD group was significantly higher than that in the CD group; it increased significantly over time in the RD group, but not in the CD group. ConclusionsSilicone-based RD liners applied to mandibular complete dentures are effective in improving the maximum occlusal force but not the masticatory performance, as measured with gummy jelly. Clinical significancePrior evidence has suggested that mandibular complete dentures with resilient denture liners improve masticatory function. However, the results of this study indicate that difficulties may remain with the mastication of foods with a certain texture (e.g., gummy jelly).