This document discusses proper techniques for contouring dentures through waxing. It emphasizes the importance of esthetic contours that mimic natural anatomy for the lips, cheeks and gingiva. Contours should provide support and prevent chronic biting or food impaction. Properly waxed dentures improve comfort, stability, function and appearance for patients.

1. 25. Final Wax Contouring John Beumer III, DDS, MS Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, Biomaterials and Hospital Dentistry UCLA School of Dentistry This program of instruction is protected by copyright ©. No portion of this program of instruction may be reproduced, recorded or transferred by any means electronic, digital, photographic, mechanical etc., or by any information storage or retrieval system, without prior permission.

4. Esthetics Gingival contours must be reproduced. This is particularly useful in patients with a high smile line who display significant amounts of gingiva.

9. Proper development of the maxillary cuspid eminences helps displace the corners of the mouth and the lip away from the biting zone. Lip Contours and Lip Biting

10. Proper development of gingival contours associated with the mandibular cuspid and 1 st premolar will help displace the corners of the mouth and the lower lip away from the biting zone . Lip Contours and Lip Biting

11. Note gingival roll and the slight concavity between gingival roll and periphery of the denture in the posterior region. This combination helps to displace the buccal mucosa away from the biting zone. Prevention of Cheek Biting

13. Stability and Control of the Mandibular Denture This lingual concavity also facilitates stability and control of the denture. During mastication, the tongue is pressed against this concave lingual surface while simultaneously placing the bolus onto the occlusal table. The action of the buccinator prevents the denture from being displaced laterally.