Dentaltown June 2024 - 47

and would like for themselves; this allows for a
deeper understanding of their aesthetic preferences,
guiding the design of dentures that align
with the patient's vision and desires for their
new smile.
Laboratory preparations
for the records appointment
Based on the records and instructions gathered
during the impressions appointment, eff ective
laboratory preparations play a vital role in
optimizing the clinical records appointment and
ensuring increased record accuracy.
1. Th e laboratory should diligently follow the
dentist's instructions regarding the initial
wax rim contours to minimize the need
for chairside adjustments. Th is results in
greater effi ciency and accuracy during the
fi nal records appointment. Th e baseplate
with the wax rim should also closely conform
to the master cast for good intraoral
retention, but there should not be a post
dam on the baseplate.
2. Using the Swissedent Wax Rim Former
(Fig. 30) will create the maxillary wax
rim with an occlusal plane parallel to the
horizon (and to the interpupillary line) and
parallel antero-posteriorly to the ala-tragus
line. Th e heated wax rim former is rotated
upward against the wax rim, and the wax
rim can be melted down to the desired
length (Fig. 31).
3. Th e laboratory should use the alameter
measurement as a guide for the width of the
anterior sextant of the wax rim.
4. Th e papillameter measurement can be used
as a guide for the length of the wax rim in
the central incisor area. As another option,
the dentist may indicate a preference for
using the former denture as the guide and
give measurements using the alma gauge for
contouring the wax rim. With the laboratory
following these measurements, refi ning
the wax rim's contours during the records
appointment can be streamlined.
Leif Stromberg, DDS, MAGD, FADI, FICD, practices restorative dentistry
in Dallas. Stromberg was selected as a Texas Super Dentist in Texas Monthly
magazine from 2005 to 2017. In 2022, he became a Texas Academy of
General Dentistry Dentist of the Year Award nominee, and in 2023 he earned
fellowship in the International College of Dentists.
Stromberg, who also served as a clinical assistant professor at Texas
A&M University College of Dentistry from 2000 to 2005, is frequently
solicited to present at dental conferences on techniques for predictably
successful complete dentures and has written a textbook on the same topic.
Website: strombergdentistry.com
JUNE 2024 | 47 | DENTALTOWN.COM
5. Use the preliminary verticentric record as a valuable
guide for setting up the gothic arch tracer or
wax rims in very close alignment with the fi nal
verticentric record.
Conclusion
Mastering techniques for making accurate fi nal
impressions, along with obtaining additional records
and measurements as discussed in this course,
signifi cantly improves the predictability and success
of tissue-supported complete denture treatments.
Achieving this success requires each step to be done
competently by all members of the dental team, active
collaboration with the patient, eff ective communication
with the laboratory, and the judicious use of
appropriate materials and techniques. Th ese combined
eff orts play a pivotal role in consistently delivering successful
dentures that satisfy the patient, function well,
and contribute to the patient's overall well-being.
As the fi eld continues to evolve with the introduction
of new materials, techniques, and advancements
in digital technology and dental implants, maintaining
a strong foundation in these fundamental
principles empowers dentists to assess their potential
for enhancing workfl ow and creating higher-quality
restorations more effi ciently. Th is adaptability ensures
that dental professionals can stay at the forefront of
delivering excellent patient care in an evolving dental
landscape. DT
http://www.strombergdentistry.com http://www.DENTALTOWN.COM
Dentaltown June 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Dentaltown June 2024
