Occlusal requirements for removable partial dentures

Abstract

This article discusses a philosophy of occlusion, its mechanism, and its effects in removable partial denture construction. It suggests that: 1. The support for an extension base removable partial denture must be distributed between both the residual ridge and the remaining teeth so that neither is individually overloaded. 2. Many factors must be considered to keep the occlusal work load transmitted to the alveolar bone within minimal limits so that it does not exceed the tissue tolerance of the host. The occlusion is one of the most important of these. 3. Different occlusal requirements exist in different removable partial denture situations. Balanced occlusion is required against dentures, and centric occlusal contact only is required when sufficient natural teeth remain to supply occlusal guidance through the full range of mandibular movement. 4. The potential to destroy alveolar support by exceeding the host's tissue tolerance appears to be greatest when a mandibular extension base removable partial denture opposes a maxillary complete denture, because the settling of the maxillary denture creates destructive occlusal forces. 5. Opposing natural teeth should be made to harmonize with the patient's mandibular movements before constructing removable partial dentures. 6. Different occlusal situations require the use of different materials in the occlusal surfaces of the teeth. 7. An extension base removable partial denture should not move under any bruxing occlusal load that the patient is capable of applying.