CDT Complete Denture Fabrication Flashcards

What is the 'try-in' appointment in complete denture fabrication designed to verify?

Answer: Tooth arrangement, occlusion, esthetics, and phonetics before final processing

The wax try-in allows assessment and correction of tooth position, occlusal scheme, vertical dimension, and esthetics before irreversible acrylic processing.

What is 'processing shrinkage' in acrylic denture fabrication, and how is it managed?

Answer: Dimensional contraction of acrylic during polymerization; managed by using proper packing and curing cycles

Acrylic resin shrinks approximately 0.2–0.5% during polymerization, and proper flask packing technique and controlled curing cycles minimize distortion.

What is the purpose of 'festooning' the denture wax prior to processing?

Answer: To carve the wax to simulate natural gingival contours and root prominences

Festooning shapes the wax base to mimic natural gingival architecture, including root eminences and interdental papillae, for a lifelike esthetic result.

Which acrylic resin polymerization method produces the least porosity in a complete denture base?

Answer: Heat-cured acrylic processed in a water bath at a controlled long-cure cycle

A long, controlled water-bath heat cure (e.g., 74°C for 8 hours or 74°C/2hr + 100°C/1hr) minimizes residual monomer and gaseous porosity.

What is the 'neutral zone' concept in complete denture construction?

Answer: The space where forces from the tongue and cheeks/lips balance, used to position denture teeth

The neutral zone is where musculature forces from the tongue and perioral muscles balance, providing the most stable position for denture teeth.

What type of occlusal scheme is most commonly recommended for complete denture patients to maximize stability?

Answer: Lingualized occlusion or balanced occlusion

Balanced occlusion (bilateral simultaneous contact in all excursions) or lingualized occlusion is preferred for complete dentures to prevent tipping and maximize stability.