Abstract
Patient: An edentulous patient with masticatory dysfunction experienced an ill-fitting complete mandibular denture and its recurrent fracture. Several attempts to reinforce the denture were unsuccessful.
Discussion: It was hypothesized that the recurrent fractures were attributable not only to the structure of the denture, but also to the dispersion and uneven distribution of functional force through the denture. Therefore, correct tooth alignment, proper contours of the polished surfaces, and centric and lingualized bilateral balanced occlusion were ensured to establish a neutral zone before fabricating a new complete denture. The patient’s masticatory function was restored, and no signs of fracture have since been observed.
Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of functional factors (e.g., the centric relation of the mandible, a neutral zone, and balanced occlusion) in addition to structural factors (e.g., denture thickness) as potential causes of mandibular denture fracture.
