Design of complete denture reinforced with metal base

Introduction. Complete denture reinforced with metal bases is fabricated in cases of fracture risk as well as in selected patients with neuromuscular disorders. The aim of this report was to present different designs of metal framework for complete denture and their advantages in the treatment of edentulous patients. Material and Methods. The study included 116 edentulous patients who received complete dentures. The respondents were divided into two groups according to the type of denture used. Thirty one patients were rehabilitated with complete dentures reinforced with metal base, whereas 85 patients received conventional complete acrylic dentures. Metal bases were fabricated using Co-Cr-Mo alloy. Two designs different in regards to the vibrating line were fabricated: metal frame extended to the vibrating line and acrylic resin extended to the vibrating line. After investing and casting, metal bases were electropolished. Subsequent processes of arranging artificial teeth, waxing, flasking and finishing completed the fabrication process of dentures. Results. Denture base fractures were prevented in majority of patients. The design of upper denture where metal frame was extended to the vibrating line and metal base with elongation over the convex edentulous ridge in lower jaw were the most favored and successful in prosthetic rehabilitation of experimental group of edentulous patients. There was no need for rebasing of complete dentures reinforced with metal base. Conclusion. Complete denture reinforced with metal base presents a favorable design for rehabilitation of edentulous patients with well pronounced edentulous ridges and low tendency to resorption.