Complete denture stages
Primary and definitive impressions, jaw relation, try-in, fit and review each answer a different question. Record changes at every stage.
Understand
Each clinical stage tests a different aspect: impressions capture supporting tissues, jaw registration records relationships, try-in permits shared evaluation and fit checks occlusion and extension.
Assess
At impression, inspect border capture and tissue displacement. At try-in, verify speech, support, tooth position and centric relation with the patient.
Apply
Record agreed changes rather than silently moving forward. After delivery, review pressure areas and function; adaptation and adjustments are expected, particularly in a first-time wearer.
Key distinctions
Primary impressions identify the overall form; definitive impressions refine tissue and border relationships. Jaw registration and occlusal plane affect both function and appearance. Try-in is a diagnostic appointment to test tooth position and speech before processing. Delivery is not the end: pressure spots, occlusal adjustments and adaptation often require planned review.
Think through a case
At wax try-in the patient dislikes tooth display. This is the moment to alter the arrangement, not after processing and delivery.
The distinction to remember
Do not treat try-in as a formality; record the patient's agreement on appearance and phonetics.
Test your recall
What should a try-in verify?
Show answer
Appearance, occlusion, speech and the agreed tooth arrangement.