Prognostic indicators for conventional complete denture therapy: A review of the literature

Objectives: To review the current literature on prognostic indicators for conventional complete denture therapy. Data: Original articles studying outcome measures and patient satisfaction with conventional complete dentures. Sources: Ovid databases from 1988 to present and subsequent review of related articles from the 1960s onwards. Searches were limited to English language only and used a variety of keywords. Conclusions: There remains a paucity of research in this area. From the best available data, construction of technically correct dentures, a well-formed mandibular ridge and accuracy of jaw relations are positive indicators for success. Patient neuroticism and a poorly formed mandibular ridge are negative indicators for success. Other prognostic indicators have not been shown to be of significant value. There exists a minority of patients who will never adapt to any conventional complete denture. This problem is more acute in the mandible than the maxilla. There is need for further research in this area. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.