Before relining a complete denture, what is a necessary step?

Before relining a complete denture, building up posterior occlusion is an essential step because it ensures that the occlusal relationships are appropriately adjusted to maintain functional integrity and comfort for the patient. Proper occlusion is critical for distributing chewing forces evenly across the dental arch, which helps to prevent excessive wear on the denture and supports the health of the oral tissues.

Building up posterior occlusion can involve adjusting the artificial teeth or modifying the denture base to ensure that there is adequate support and stability during function. This adjustment is especially important if there has been a change in the patient's ridge anatomy or if the denture has become loose due to changes in the underlying bone or soft tissues. By addressing the posterior occlusion before the relining process, you create a better foundation for the relining material and improve the overall fit and function of the denture.

The other options do not address the critical aspect of occlusion, which can lead to complications in comfort and functionality post-relining. Adjusting only the anterior teeth might not provide a comprehensive solution, polishing may enhance aesthetics but does not address fit, and changing the denture base material might not be necessary if the current base is functional and just needs relining.