What occlusal scheme is used when fabricating a new complete denture?

Correct answer: A. Centric relation occlusion

• A. Correct. Complete dentures are fabricated using centric relation (CR) as the reference occlusion, since edentulous patients have no intercuspal position. CR is the most reproducible, most posterior, unstrained position of the condyles and is used as the jaw relationship record.
• B. Maximum intercuspation (MIP) requires existing teeth for reference — it cannot be used for completely edentulous patients.
• C. Canine-protected occlusion is for dentate patients with intact canines — not applicable to edentulous patients.
• D. Group function occlusion is used in natural dentition with missing or compromised canines — not for complete dentures.