Abstract

Modern theories and concepts of occlusion for implants and natural teeth have originated in complete denture construction. Bilateral balanced occlusion as the occlusal scheme of choice has a long history in complete denture construction. The reason that occlusion has always been a consideration in the provision of removable prosthetics is because the adoption of good occlusal practice has a significant and immediate impact on the overall success of the treatment, as it affects denture stability. However, clinicians must remember that there are multiple ways, both successful and unsuccessful, to complete the restoration of a patient’s occlusion. The goal is to meet the physiologic, functional, and esthetic needs of the individual patient while applying knowledge, accurate diagnosis, experience, clinical judgement, and attention to detail. This paper describes the features of an ideal occlusion in removable prosthodontics, why these features make it ideal for denture stability, and some technique for achieving these aims.