Denture Base: Function, Materials, and Care in Dental Prosthetics
What is a denture base and what is its function?
The denture base is the part of a dental prosthesis that fits over the patient's gums and alveolar ridge, providing support and stability to the artificial teeth. Its design must anatomically adapt to the oral cavity to ensure a proper fit and minimize discomfort.
Main functions of the denture base:
✔️ Distributes masticatory pressure over the soft tissues and underlying bone
✔️ Provides stability by preventing the denture from moving during chewing or speaking
✔️ Ensures aesthetics by mimicking the color and texture of natural gums
✔️ Allows retention so that the denture stays in place without slipping
Types of denture bases according to the type of rehabilitation
🔹 Complete denture base: Used in completely edentulous patients and covers the entire extension of the alveolar ridge
🔹 Removable partial denture base: Combined with clasps or attachments to stabilize remaining teeth
🔹 Implant-supported fixed denture base: Made with rigid materials such as metal or ceramic for greater strength
🔹 Overdenture base: Adapts over implants or remaining natural teeth to improve retention
Materials used in the denture base
✅ Acrylic resin: It is the most common material due to its ease of adaptation and natural aesthetics
✅ Metal (chrome-cobalt or titanium): Used in skeletal removable dentures for its high resistance
✅ Polyurethane and medical silicone: Used in soft bases to improve comfort in patients with severe bone resorption
✅ Ceramic: Used in implant-supported fixed prostheses for its durability and aesthetic appearance
Denture base manufacturing process
1️⃣ Impression taking of the alveolar ridge and supporting tissues
2️⃣ Plaster working model to replicate the patient's anatomy
3️⃣ Wax try-in to verify adaptation and make adjustments
4️⃣ Processing in resin, metal, or ceramic according to the denture design
5️⃣ Polishing and delivery to the patient with use and maintenance recommendations
Care and maintenance of the denture base
✔️ Daily cleaning with brushes and specific products for dentures
✔️ Avoid using hot water to prevent deformation
✔️ Do not apply abrasive substances that could damage the surface of the base
✔️ Store the denture in a container with water or special solution when not in use
Frequent problems and solutions
⚠️ Oral mucosa irritation: May be due to poor adaptation or inadequate material
⚠️ Fractures or wear in the base: Requires repair or replacement of the denture
⚠️ Accumulation of bacterial plaque: Prevented with proper hygiene and the use of specific cleaners
Conclusion
The denture base is a fundamental component in removable and fixed oral rehabilitations. Its correct design, manufacture, and maintenance ensure an optimal fit and improve the functionality of the denture, allowing the patient to regain their quality of life.
Legal Notice and Disclaimer
This article is part of ONAK's Dictionary of Medical Terms and is for informational purposes. It does not replace consultation with a dentist or dental prosthetist.
Bibliography
- Zarb, G. A., Hobkirk, J., Eckert, S. "Prosthodontic Treatment for Edentulous Patients." Elsevier, 2013. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24056028/
- Misch, C. E. "Dental Implant Prosthetics." 2nd ed. Elsevier, 2014. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24113361/
