Enhanced retention for the distal extension-base removable partial denture using a heat-cured resilient soft liner.

Replacement of the conventional heat-cured acrylic resin with a soft durable liner in the retromylohyoid eminence areas allows the patient to manipulate the distal extension-base mandibular RPD into place without traumatizing the soft tissue. With maximum coverage of the edentulous ridges, the semiflexible flange minimizes food entrapment and improves the retention and stability of the RPD. The procedure can be accomplished during the initial processing of the RPD or when relining the prosthesis. We have also used the technique for overdentures and for improving retention in the maxillary anterior extension-base RPD where anterior clasping was not esthetic or was insufficient.