Before relining a complete denture, what crucial step must be established?

In the context of relining a complete denture, restoring posterior occlusion is critical before proceeding. This step ensures that the occlusal relationships between upper and lower dentures are properly aligned, which is essential for achieving a stable bite and preventing any undue stress on the residual ridges post-relining. A properly established posterior occlusion directly contributes to functional and comfortable jaw relations, promoting effective chewing and speaking.

Additionally, the importance of posterior occlusion also lies in maintaining the overall balance of occlusion throughout the denture. If posterior occlusion is compromised, it can lead to issues such as uneven wear or even denture displacement. Thus, ensuring that the posterior occlusion is restored allows for a more stable and functional denture post-reline.

While evaluating base retention is important, it primarily pertains to the fit and stability of the denture itself rather than the specific functional relationship being addressed by posterior occlusion. Similarly, anterior guidance and checking occlusal splints are secondary factors that may be relevant in a comprehensive evaluation but do not take precedence in terms of the essential steps prior to relining.