What is the primary objective of achieving proper occlusion in complete dentures?

The primary objective of achieving proper occlusion in complete dentures is to ensure mastication efficiency. Proper occlusion allows for the effective alignment of the upper and lower dentures during chewing, enabling the patient to adequately break down food, which is essential for digestion and overall nutritional intake.

When occlusion is properly established, it not only helps distribute forces evenly across the dental arches, minimizing the risk of discomfort or denture movement but also contributes to restoring a more natural biting and chewing function. This is particularly important for patients who may have been without teeth for an extended period, as they may need to readjust to the mechanics of chewing.

In contrast, while improving aesthetic appearance, enhancing patient comfort, and supporting facial structure are important aspects of denture fabrication, they are secondary to the functional requirement of mastication efficiency. Without the ability to effectively chew, patients may find their quality of life significantly diminished, regardless of how aesthetically pleasing or comfortable their dentures may be.