Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
What is the PRIMARY stress-bearing area of the MANDIBULAR complete denture?
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Correct answer: B. Buccal shelf + slopes of the residual alveolar ridge
✓ B) Buccal shelf and slopes of the alveolar ridge are the primary support areas.
Mandibular complete denture support: PRIMARY = buccal shelf (cortical bone lateral to alveolar ridge, medial to external oblique ridge) + slopes of residual alveolar ridge. SECONDARY = retromolar pad. The buccal shelf is cortical bone perpendicular to occlusal forces — excellent support. As the alveolar ridge resorbs, the buccal shelf becomes increasingly important. The retromolar pad is soft tissue — provides cushioning support but is secondary. Maxillary primary support = residual ridges + hard palate (not soft palate).
Mandibular complete denture support: PRIMARY = buccal shelf (cortical bone lateral to alveolar ridge, medial to external oblique ridge) + slopes of residual alveolar ridge. SECONDARY = retromolar pad. The buccal shelf is cortical bone perpendicular to occlusal forces — excellent support. As the alveolar ridge resorbs, the buccal shelf becomes increasingly important. The retromolar pad is soft tissue — provides cushioning support but is secondary. Maxillary primary support = residual ridges + hard palate (not soft palate).
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