Maxillary and mandibular overlay removable partial dentures for the treatment of posterior open-occlusal relationship: a clinical report

This clinical report describes the use of maxillary and mandibular overlay removable partial dentures to treat a patient with class III skeletal malocclusion and a posterior open-occlusal relationship. Overlay removable partial denture therapy was used as an alternative to other options such as orthodontics and combined orthodontic/oral surgery procedures; it satisfied the esthetic and functional requirements of the patient and provided a stable occlusion. Overlay removable partial dentures are a reversible and relatively inexpensive treatment for patients with congenital or acquired anomalies, but the potential disadvantages of these prostheses include compromised esthetics when the dentures are removed; caries and periodontal disease as a result of poor oral hygiene; and veneer material fracture, debonding, discoloration, and wear.