A new maxillary palatal plate-form device that simultaneously measures clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa at the onset of jaw clenching pain was developed to ascertain the effect of median palatal plate relief on denture-bearing ability.

In 15 dentulous subjects, pseudo-palatal plates were affixed to the palatal mucosa; anterior splints were affixed as maxillary references for measuring subsidence upon transmission of the clenching force through a pressurizing splint affixed to the mandible. The relief at the median palatal plate was categorized as: No-relief, 0.23 mm relief, and 0.46 mm relief. Subjects clenched their jaws until they experienced pain. The clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa were simultaneously measured and compared across relief categories, and their relationship to the extent of relief at the onset of pain was evaluated.

At the onset of pain, both clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa in the relief conditions were significantly greater than those in the no-relief condition (p < 0.05). In some patients, both clenching force and subsidence of the palatal mucosa decreased with increase in relief.

Relief at the median palatal plate effectively increases the bearing ability of the palatal part. However, the range and extent of relief might vary, depending on oral conditions.

Using this approach, the relief area of maxillary full dentures suitable for individual patients was determined in an objective and convenient manner and the accuracy of denture treatments was improved. This could improve the quality of life of patients wearing dentures.

Tanaka S, Sato Y, Kitagawa N, Shimodaira O, Isobe A, Takamatsu N, Omori T. Effect of Relief at the Median Palatal Plate on Denture-supporting Ability. Int J Prosthodont Restor Dent 2017;7(4):117-123.