Dental Anatomy: Alveololingual Sulcus Regions

Posterior Palatal Seal

• The primary purpose of the posterior palatal seal is to provide retention and stability to the denture.
• The shape of the posterior palatal seal area is typically triangular or heart-shaped.

Lingual Frenum

• The lingual frenum is located under the tongue, near the floor of the mouth.
• A short lingual frenum can cause issues during denture construction, such as restricted tongue movement and speech difficulties.

Sublingual Gland Region

• The sublingual gland region affects the height of the flange in a denture by limiting its vertical extension.
• The sublingual gland region is associated with the anatomical landmark known as the sublingual fossa.

Alveololingual Sulcus

• The purpose of the alveololingual sulcus is to provide a barrier that prevents food and liquids from accumulating under the denture.
• The alveololingual sulcus marks the posterior limit of the denture to ensure a proper fit.

Denture Construction

• The posterior palatal seal area serves as a guide for positioning the border of the denture in the posterior palate.
• The alveololingual sulcus compensates for acrylic shrinkage and maintains palate contact with the denture base.

Clinical Considerations

• Overextension of the upper denture can cause patient discomfort, pain, and difficulty eating or speaking.
• The vibrating line is a crucial landmark during denture construction, and the area 2 mm anterior to it is significant in determining the proper border of the denture.