Comparative evaluation of the lateral throat form and the border extension of mandibular complete denture in the distolingual region in gandhinagar district: An In-vivo study

Introduction: Lateral throat form plays an important role in the success of lower complete denture as it affects its retention and stability. The length and thickness of lower dentures should be properly established in this region. Aim of this study is to evaluate the difference in the extension of lateral throat form between the patient's mouth and lower dentures. Materials and Methods: The lateral throat form was classified according to Neil's classification into Class I, Class II and Class III. The length of the lateral throat form was measured in the patient's mouth and in lower dentures with the help of UNC periodontal probe, and a comparison was made between them. Results: Among all the patients in this study, Neil's Class I lateral throat form was 53%, Class II was 37% and Class III was 10%. The average variation between the extent of lateral throat form intraorally and in lower denture at the anterior edge of the retromolar pad was 1.7 ± 1.75 mm in the right side and 2.5 ± 2.00 mm in the left side, whereas at the posterior edge of retromolar pad, it was 2.23 ± 1.92 mm in the right side and 3.06 ± 2.25 mm in the left side. Conclusions: The proportion of Neil's Class I was the highest followed by Class II and Class III was the lowest. The difference between the length of lateral throat form in the patient's mouth and in lower denture was statistically significant (P