USE OF A MULTILAYER COMPLETE DENTURE BASE WITH A LIQUID- SUPPORTED ELEMENT: CLINICAL AND BIOMECHANICAL RATIONALE

Abstract

Purpose. To substantiate the feasibility of a multilayer complete denture base incorporating a liquid-supported element as a method for reducing local peak loads on denture-bearing mucosa and shortening the adaptation period in completely edentulous patients. The rationale is based on current evidence on denture–mucosa pressure distribution and the clinical relevance of the pressure-pain threshold (PPT) in denture-related discomfort and pain. Materials and methods. A comparative clinical observation was performed in completely edentulous patients: the study group (n=24) received complete dentures with a multilayer base and a liquid-supported element, whereas the control group (n=22) received conventional complete dentures with a rigid acrylic base. Outcomes included pain complaints, mucosal inflammatory/traumatic changes, adaptation period duration, number of adjustments during the first month, clinical stability/retention, and patient-reported comfort. The evaluation framework aligns with approaches used in studies assessing resilient interfaces and long-term soft relining materials in complete denture therapy. Scientific novelty. Given the ongoing lack of standardized baseline ranges for denture– mucosa pressure and methodological heterogeneity in pressure assessment, this paper provides a clinical and biomechanical justification of the liquid-supported element as a hydrodynamic damper. Under functional loading, the liquid redistributes within a sealed compartment, potentially lowering peak contact stresses and increasing the load-bearing area. In contrast to conventional soft liners-where adhesion issues, changes in hardness/ roughness, and long-term microbial contamination have been reported – the liquid-supported concept emphasizes sustained cushioning provided that sealing integrity and manufacturing precision are ensured. Conclusions. The multilayer liquid-supported design showed a trend toward reduced pain at day 14, shorter adaptation time, and fewer post-insertion adjustments within the first month compared with rigid acrylic bases. The approach appears particularly relevant for challenging anatomical and tissue conditions (atrophic ridges, thin/low-resilience mucosa, flabby areas), consistent with clinical reports on liquid-supported dentures. Further studies are warranted to standardize fabrication parameters and to incorporate quantitative pressure mapping protocols.