Lingualized occlusion: an occlusal solution for edentulous patients.

Occlusion is a critical component in any aspect of prosthodontic care including that related to the treatment of dentate, partially dentate, or edentulous patients. When complete dentures are fabricated for an edentulous patient, occlusion has a considerable influence on the outcome of treatment. Due to the relative simplicity involved in development of a lingualized occlusal scheme by dental laboratory technicians, this approach has gained favor among practitioners who are able to evaluate and/or correct tooth arrangements for complete dentures. This article will highlight the influences of a lingualized tooth arrangement in complete denture occlusion as it relates to improving edentulous patients' function and quality of life; it will also demonstrate a predictable approach to achieving lingualized occlusion in complete denture prosthodontics.