Neutral zone approach and external impression for rehabilitation of severely atrophic maxillary and mandibular ridges: a case report

ABSTRACT

In order to produce a stable denture for severe alveolar bone loss area, it is not only important that .0a suitable occlusion is established but also to consider compatibility with the surrounding muscle to form a suitable polished surfaces. Neutral zone is defined as a potential area where the neuromuscular system of the tongue, cheeks and lips is balanced can be determined through the neutral zone impression technique. And if artificial teeth are aligned within the neutral zone and the polished surface follows the anatomical form of the dynamic muscle, higher stability and retention of the denture may be obtained through coordination with the surrounding muscle tissue. This case is being reported since the concept of the neutral zone was applied to a patient with severely atrophic residual alveolar ridge and the result was clinically satisfactory in both function and aesthetics.