Complete dentures: an update on clinical assessment and management: part 1.

The ability to provide high-quality complete dentures has been a key skill for general dental practitioners throughout the history of dental care. The prevalence of edentulism is becoming increasingly concentrated in an older patient cohort and general dental practitioners may more commonly face challenges associated with providing care for these patients. This two-part series explores various aspects of complete denture provision and is designed to act as a refresher on core aspects of managing these patients, while also covering common challenges associated with anatomical or patient factors. This first part will explore changes in the provision and teaching of complete denture care in the UK and will describe important aspects of patient examination. It will discuss the management of unstable lower dentures and fibrous replacement ridges. Part two will cover management of the gag reflex, tori, microstomia and copy dentures.