Residual Ridge Resorption (RRR)

Cellular components of bone responsible for breaking down and removing bone tissue.

The process of breaking down and removing bone tissue, carried out by osteoclasts.

A progressive reduction in the size of the bony ridge beneath the gum tissue, often occurring after tooth extraction.

A high, well-rounded residual ridge with a narrow, rounded crest, forming after the initial healing phase following tooth extraction.

A very narrow, knife-like residual ridge with a sharp, thin crest, resulting from continued bone resorption.

A wide, low, and rounded residual ridge, formed after the knife-edged ridge resorbs, losing its sharpness.

A depressed residual ridge, where resorption has extended below the level of a nearby bony landmark.

The classification system used by the American College of Prosthodontists to categorize the height of residual bone in the mandible.

The height of remaining bone after tooth extraction, measured vertically from the crest of the bone to the base of the mandible.

Bone resorption in the maxilla occurs upwards and inwards, making the jaw smaller.

Bone resorption in the mandible occurs outwards and downwards, making the jaw wider.

The pattern of bone loss after tooth extraction in the mandible. The labial side of the anterior ridge, the buccal and lingual sides of premolars, and the lingual side of molars are affected.

The pattern of bone loss after tooth extraction in the maxilla. The labial or buccal aspect is primarily affected.

The anterior mandible resorbs at a faster rate than the anterior maxilla.

The area where the maxilla supports a denture is larger than the area where the mandible supports a denture.

The force applied by chewing is distributed differently on the maxillary and mandibular dentures, contributing to differing resorption rates.

The width and depth of the space between the gums and the tooth is reduced. This makes it harder to create a good fit for dentures.

The muscles attached to the jawbone move closer to the top of the ridge. This affects the stability and fit of dentures.

The height of the lower face decreases, and the lower jaw rotates forward. This can lead to an uneven bite and changes in facial appearance.

The surface of the bone becomes uneven and irregular. This can make it difficult to create a stable and comfortable denture.

The bone around the nerve canal can be resorbed, potentially exposing the nerve. This can cause pain and numbness.

The opening for the mental nerve can be located closer to the top of the ridge. This can make it difficult to create a good fit for dentures.

RRR creates challenges for dentists in designing and fitting dentures, making it harder to provide adequate support, stability, and retention.

The frequency, intensity, duration, and direction of forces applied to bone influence bone formation or resorption, depending on individual resistance.

Bone adapts to forces applied to it, leading to changes in its density and structure.

Excessive or sustained pressure can disrupt blood flow and lead to bone resorption.

The amount, distribution, and direction of the force applied impact how bone responds.

Constant pressure over time causes bone resorption, while intermittent forces promote bone formation.

The amount of time between stress applications impacts bone remodeling; frequent stress can cause bone resorption.

Grinding teeth, especially during sleep, can lead to excessive stress and bone resorption.

Rest periods are essential for bone maintenance, as they allow for bone recovery and repair.

Reducing the force applied per unit area. For example, snowshoes distribute weight over a larger area, decreasing pressure on the snow.

The use of a denture that sits over remaining teeth (abutments) in the mouth. It is used to help the existing natural teeth from shifting when the denture is removed.

Surgical procedures performed before making dentures to improve the shape of the bone, reposition muscle attachments, or remove gum tissue that may interfere with the denture.

The use of dental implants to support or replace lost teeth. It can help to reduce further bone loss.

The force on the alveolar ridge that pushes the denture upwards and can cause bone loss. It's caused by the steep incline of high cusps on teeth.

The ideal arrangement of teeth that allows for chewing movements without damaging the supporting bone.

The best way to prevent bone loss after teeth are extracted.

Using a technique that minimizes pressure on delicate areas during an impression, helping to preserve bone.

Selecting areas of the impression that can withstand pressure, helping to keep bone strong.

A design feature for dentures that involves making the chewing surface narrower, reducing stress on the bone.

Creating extra space for the tongue, helping to stabilize the denture and reduce pressure on the bone.