Metal reinforcement of a complete maxillary denture without a palate: a preliminary report.

This preliminary study examined laboratory-simulated differences between maxillary complete dentures with and without a palate (palateless) as well as the effect of reinforcement of the latter design. Five types of experimental dentures and three types of reinforcements were made. Strain gauges were attached, and a vertical load was applied. The strain was statistically compared using analysis of variance (P = .05). Strain recordings on the palatal side of palateless dentures without reinforcement were significantly higher than in complete dentures and palateless dentures with reinforcement (P < .05). These preliminary observations suggest that such reinforcement with a palatal bar or metal-based palate may reduce the risk of fracture and deformation.