Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
What is the primary support structure for the MANDIBULAR complete denture?
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Correct answer: C. Buccal shelf
C) Buccal shelf — CORRECT for primary support (stress-bearing area).
For the MANDIBULAR denture, the primary stress-bearing (load-bearing) area is the BUCCAL SHELF — the area between the buccal frenum and the retromolar pad, lateral to the residual ridge. It is covered by cortical bone that is relatively flat and resistant to resorption, making it ideal for bearing occlusal load.
A) Alveolar ridge: The primary support for the MAXILLARY denture — the mandibular ridge resorbs rapidly and becomes less reliable.
B) Retromolar pad: The SECONDARY stress-bearing area for mandibular dentures; important for posterior seal and denture positioning but not primary support.
D) Mental ridge: Can cause pressure problems — not a primary support structure.
For the MANDIBULAR denture, the primary stress-bearing (load-bearing) area is the BUCCAL SHELF — the area between the buccal frenum and the retromolar pad, lateral to the residual ridge. It is covered by cortical bone that is relatively flat and resistant to resorption, making it ideal for bearing occlusal load.
A) Alveolar ridge: The primary support for the MAXILLARY denture — the mandibular ridge resorbs rapidly and becomes less reliable.
B) Retromolar pad: The SECONDARY stress-bearing area for mandibular dentures; important for posterior seal and denture positioning but not primary support.
D) Mental ridge: Can cause pressure problems — not a primary support structure.
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