Geronto-anatomical aspects of the buccinator muscle in prosthetic stomatology.

Alongside with the absorption of the alveolar process in advanced age, fibers of the buccinator muscle cease to originate there. In consequence, the course of muscle fibers in the lower portion of the buccinator is virtually parallel to the mandible in toothless individuals. Smoothness of the accessory mandibular recess, as well as the favourable structure of soft tissues render this region an important bearer for the dental plate. Rearranged origin and course of the buccinator muscle in toothless individuals allow for an extension of the denture and contribute to the ventil-like closure of the plate.