Combinations of Arch Forms, Palatal Vaults and Posterior Palatal Seal in Completely Edentulous Patients: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Complete dentures have been, and remain, a cornerstone for the treatment of edentulous patients. To achieve success with complete dentures, it is essential to evaluate the anatomic landmarks that support and restrict them in the maxilla. A denture that is properly adapted to the denture area, with the correct width, shape, and extension of denture borders, as well as an adequate Posterior Palatal Seal (PPS) and polished and occlusal surfaces located in the neutral zone, may prevent loss of retention. In a denture, the border seal in the posterior region is created by making the impression of the PPS. Aim: To assess the various combinations of Arch Forms (AF), Palatal Vault (PV) forms, and PPS in the population of West Bengal. Materials and Methods: An cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 32 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria from the Outpatient Department (OPD) of the Department of Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge at Guru Nanak Institute of Dental Sciences and Research in Panihati, Kolkata, India, from October 2017 to March 2018, using elastomeric impression material, to assess the combinations of AFs, PVs, and PPS in completely edentulous patients. A body sensor scanner was employed to scan the maxillary casts with a rotating device to compare the combinations. The Netfabb 4.9 software was used for digital sectioning of the casts. A Contouroscope was utilised to mark the deepest concavity of the palate, and an Iwanson gauge was used for measuring the PPS. Results: The most prevalent AF found was the ovoid AF (46.9%). The most prevalent PV form was the medium U-shaped vault form (65.6%). After evaluating the different combinations, it was found that the most prevalent combination was combination 14 (tapered AF, medium U-shaped PV form, and class III PPS form). Conclusion: This study establishes the various existing combinations of arch shape, PV, and PPS. These findings could serve as a guide for future diagnosis and treatment planning, helping to anticipate the combinations of AF, PV form, and PPS form.