Reducing the risk of failure in complete denture patients

The clinical management of some edentulous patients can be a source of frustration for both patient and clinician as, despite best efforts, patients remain unable to adapt to wearing the dentures that have been provided. Often the patients who fall into this category have had poor previous experience of denture-wearing and may arguably have unrealistic expectations. Nonetheless, repeated adjustments, or even remakes, can significantly add to the cost of denture construction and this can result in a negative experience for both the clinician and patient. In recent years, the evidence base for implant-supported overdentures, especially in the mandible, has strengthened the argument for this particular strategy, and for many patients this should become the gold standard.^1,2 Unfortunately, not all patients are in a position to receive implant overdentures and the aim of this article is, firstly, to consider which dentist and patient factors have a robust evidence base that supports their role in determining success or failure and, secondly, to outline some techniques and strategies for maximizing the potential of conventional complete dentures, based on the best evidence available.