Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
What structure does a mandibular complete denture primarily receive support from?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Retromolar pad
The mandibular complete denture receives primary support from the RESIDUAL RIDGE (buccal shelf area), but secondary stress-bearing areas include the retromolar pad. The retromolar pad is a soft tissue cushion at the distal end of the mandibular ridge that provides support and distal border extension guidance. The palate and hamular notch are maxillary structures. The masseteric notch is a border landmark, not a primary support area.
- A. INCORRECT. The masseteric notch is a border landmark for impression making, not a primary support structure for the mandibular denture.
- B. INCORRECT. The palate is a maxillary structure — it provides primary support for the MAXILLARY complete denture, not the mandibular denture.
- C. INCORRECT. The hamular notch (pterygomaxillary notch) is a maxillary landmark used to determine the posterior border of the maxillary denture.
- D. CORRECT. The retromolar pad is a fibrous cushion at the distal end of the mandibular arch. It serves as a distal support area for the mandibular denture and guides posterior denture extension.
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