A Technique for Obtaining Balanced and Functional Occlusion Through Modified Wax-Path Record

Cureus. 2023 Aug 26;15(8):e44149. doi: 10.7759/cureus.44149. eCollection 2023 Aug.

Abstract

A difficult treatment problem exists to construct a complete denture as opposed to an unmodified natural dentition. A harmonious occlusion is difficult to achieve when malposed, supra-erupted or missing teeth are present in the opposing arch. This incurs compromised stability and retention, failure of the prosthesis and patient discomfort. The main aim of this article is to construct a functionally stable removable complete denture against an unmodified dentition using a functionally generated pathway (FGP) technique. The FGP technique refers to the "three-dimensional static expression of dynamic tooth movement." The functional movements made by the patient are utilized in this technique to have a harmonious occlusion with minimal intra-oral occlusal adjustments. The FGP technique can be used in the fabrication of a single crown, fixed partial dentures, removable partial dentures, complete dentures and dental implant prosthesis. This clinical report describes a method for developing the FGP occlusion for the patient having a completely edentulous maxillary arch against Kennedy's class IV edentulous mandibular arch.

Keywords: alu wax; balanced and functional occlusion; eccentric movements; face bow transfer; functionally generated path; modelling plastic compound; occlusal adjustments; removable prosthodontics; single complete denture; wax-path record.

Publication types

  • Case Reports