If a surgical stent fits around the gingiva but the immediate denture does not, what is the appropriate action?

When faced with a situation where a surgical stent fits around the gingiva but the immediate denture does not, relieving the denture until it seats properly is the appropriate action. This approach allows for adjustments to be made to the denture to accommodate any irregularities or changes in the shape of the gingiva that may have resulted from surgery.

In this scenario, the surgical stent is likely a temporary measure used to maintain the shape of the gingiva after a surgical procedure, such as tooth extraction. If the immediate denture does not fit well, it is crucial to assess the contact points and determine where pressure is being exerted that may prevent proper seating. By relieving the denture, the clinician can create space in specific areas to ensure a better fit, leading to improved comfort and functionality for the patient.

Simply replacing the denture completely could be unnecessary and costly, particularly if minor adjustments could resolve the issue. Adjusting the surgical stent might not be relevant since the problem lies with the fit of the immediate denture, not the stent itself. Lastly, using adhesive might temporarily improve retention, but it does not address the underlying problem of poor fit, which could lead to discomfort or oral health issues in the long term. Therefore