Description

Carlsson et al used a clinical exam to evaluate patients with complete dentures. This can help identify patients who may benefit from an adjustment or change to the dentures. The authors are from the University of Umea in Sweden.


 

The examination is performed by an experienced dentist.

 

Parameters:

(1) aesthetics

(2) stability of the dentures

(3) retention of the dentures

(4) occlusion of the dentures

(5) vertical relation of occlusion

(6) anatomic conditions

 

Parameter

Finding

Assessment

aesthetics

harmony exists between the dentures and the patient's face and the mouth has a natural appearance

very good

 

minor problems with appearance

rather good

 

moderate problems with appearance

rather poor

 

severe problems with appearance (plug ugly)

very poor

stability

dentures do not tip or rotate when pressed against the supporting structures

good

 

dentures tip or rotate

poor

retention

dentures resist dislodgement by muscular movements or attempts to lift the dentures

good

 

dentures easily moved

poor

occlusion

dentures retain correct intercuspation and stable relation without premature occlusal contact

correct

 

dentures do not retain correct intercuspation and/or stable relation and/or premature occlusal contact

incorrect

vertical relation of occlusion

face appears hollow and interocclusal distance is > 5 mm

too short

 

interocclusal distance <= 5 mm and lips close comfortably

correct

 

mouth appears strained and difficult for patient to close lips when mouth closed

too great

anatomic conditions

anatomic features of intra-oral structures conducive to dentures

favorable

 

anatomic structure poses a problem for dentures

unfavorable

 

When evaluating aesthetics attention is paid to:

(1) lip support

(2) level of the occlusal plane of the dentures to the position of the lips

(3) color, form, size and position of the teeth

 

Based on the 6 parameters the patient is classified as:

(1) very good

(2) rather good

(3) rather poor

(4) very poor

 


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