Denture Midline Fracture Cause — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Flexion of the denture base during function due to inadequate ridge support and/or improper occlusion
Midline fracture of a maxillary complete denture is most commonly caused by flexural fatigue — repeated bending/flexion of the denture base during function (mastication). Contributing factors include a poorly fitting denture (rocking on the ridge), deep palatal vault (creating a fulcrum), inadequate thickness of the denture base (especially at the midline frenum notch), prominent labial frenum notch acting as a stress concentration point, and improper occlusion (heavy anterior contacts). Reinforcement with a metal mesh or cast metal palate can prevent recurrence in fracture-prone dentures.
Reference: Zarb – Prosthodontic Treatment for Edentulous Patients, 13th ed., 2013