Distal Extension Removable Partial Dentures Supported by Implants and Residual Teeth: Considerations and Case Reports

The traditional treatment for an edentulous maxilla opposed by a partially edentulous mandible with a complete denture and a distal extension removable partial denture is fundamentally inadequate. Continuing resorption of alveolar bone under the denture base of the removable partial denture causes changes in the occlusal plane. Consequently, overloading of the anterior maxillary region occurs, usually leading to increased bone resorption in the anterior maxillary ridge. Placement of implants beneath the distal extension denture base of the removable partial denture can result in a stable and durable occlusion. Two patients in whom the use of implants combined with a cast metal removable partial denture provided occlusal stability and improved functional comfort are presented. Keywords: implants, removable partial denture, shortened dental arch