Name of the Procedure:

ADJUST COMPLETE DENTURE - MANDIBULAR (D5411)

• Common name: Lower Denture Adjustment
• Medical term: Mandibular Complete Denture Adjustment

Summary

Lower denture adjustment involves adjusting a complete set of lower dentures to improve fit, comfort, and function. This procedure is typically performed when a patient's lower dentures are causing discomfort, irritation, or functional issues.

Purpose

• Medical conditions or problems it addresses: Poorly fitting lower dentures, denture-related sores, difficulty in chewing or speaking.
• Goals or expected outcomes: To enhance the fit and comfort of the lower dentures, alleviate oral discomfort, and restore proper denture function.

Indications

• Specific symptoms or conditions: Sore spots, difficulty in chewing or speaking, dentures shifting or slipping, generalized discomfort when wearing the lower dentures.
• Patient criteria: Patients who have complete lower dentures and are experiencing issues with fit or comfort.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: Maintain good oral hygiene; remove dentures and clean them thoroughly before the appointment.
• Diagnostic tests or assessments: A thorough oral examination and an assessment of the denture fit by the dental provider.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The dentist will evaluate the fit and identify pressure points or areas causing discomfort.
2. Marking and Adjusting: The lower dentures will be marked with a special material to highlight pressure spots. The dentist will then use hand tools like dental drills or burrs to adjust these areas.
3. Re-evaluation: The dentures will be placed back in the mouth to assess the fit. This process may be repeated until optimal comfort and fit are achieved.
4. Final Polish: Once adjustments are made, the dentures will be polished for smoothness.

• Tools and Equipment: Dental drills, burrs, marking materials, and polishing tools.
• Anesthesia or sedation: Generally not required, as the process is non-invasive and relatively painless.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of adjustments needed.

Setting

Typically performed in a dental office or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Healthcare professionals involved: General dentist or prosthodontist, supported by dental assistants.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minor irritation or soreness from the initial adjustment, transient discomfort.
• Rare risks: Damage to the denture, persistent discomfort requiring further adjustments.

Benefits

• Expected benefits: Improved denture fit, enhanced comfort, better chewing and speaking abilities.
• Timeline: Benefits are usually realized immediately after the adjustment, with optimal comfort achieved within a few days.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Follow daily denture cleaning routine, use prescribed oral rinses if any soreness occurs.
• Expected recovery time: Immediate, with minor adjustments possibly needed over the following days.
• Restrictions or follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure continued proper fit.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options: Re-lining the dentures, fabricating new dentures, using denture adhesives.
• Pros and cons:
  • Re-lining: Provides a custom fit but may be more invasive and time-consuming.
  • New dentures: Can provide the best fit but are costlier and more time-intensive.
  • Denture adhesives: Quick fix but not a permanent or long-term solution.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Minimal discomfort, as the process mainly involves fine adjustments and polishing.
• After the procedure: Some initial tenderness which usually resolves quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if needed. Most patients experience immediate relief and improved function.