Optimal outcome of complete denture treat- ment depends on the successful integration of the prosthesis with the patient’s oral functions plus psychological acceptance of the dentures

ment depends on the successful integration of the prosthesis with the patient’s oral functions plus psychological acceptance of the dentures by the patient. These parameters require that patients perceive their dentures as stationary or well retained during function, and that the prostheses and their effects on the face meet the esthetic and psychodynamic requirements of the patient. In this chapter, the factors involved in achieving denture retention (the resistance to removal in a direction opposite that of insertion) are reviewed, and the role that a denture adhesive agent may play in the context of the patient’s adjustment to, and acceptance of, the dentures is discussed.