Occlusal reconstruction in a patient with reduced occlusal vertical dimension using a removable occlusal overlay splint

Abstract

Patient: The patient was a 65-year-old male. The chief complaint was masticatory disorder in the molar region and concerns about the esthetics of the edentulous anterior maxilla. Intraoral examination revealed reduced occlusal support, infraocclusion, and inability of the mandible to move laterally. The occlusal vertical dimension was restored by a treatment denture, and the provisional restoration was adjusted to provide canine guidance. Finally, fixed prostheses and a removable partial denture were provided.

Discussion: Appropriate vertical occlusal height and anterior guidance were determined using provisional restorations and a treatment denture. Transferring the occlusal relationship to the final prostheses using a custom incisal guide table led to satisfactory clinical results.

Conclusion: In this case, masticatory function was improved by restoration of occlusal support and appropriate anterior guidance. Appropriate occlusion led to the preservation of masticatory function and occlusal support without any complications.