The relationship of vertical dimension of atypical swallowing with complete dentures.

A number of subjects were studied cineflourographically during swallowing, and their vertical dimensions of occlusion were clinically evaluated. The subjects who had reduced vertical dimensions of occlusion were older than those with normal vertical dimensions, their dentures were older, their total years with complete dentures were more, and the tendency to swallow without opposing tooth contact was greater. The cumulative evidence indicates that such aberrant muscle activity might contribute to the regressive changes found in complete denture wearers.