Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What aspect of denture function can be impacted by anti-BP medication?

1. Comfort during wear

2. Retention in the oral cavity

3. Visual appearance of the dentures

4. Cleaning and maintenance requirements

The correct answer is: Retention in the oral cavity

The impact of anti-BP (bisphosphonate) medication on denture function primarily relates to retention in the oral cavity. Bisphosphonates primarily work to inhibit bone resorption and can influence the health of the oral and maxillofacial bone structures. When patients are on bisphosphonate therapy, there may be alterations in the bone density and architecture of the jaw, which can directly affect how well dentures fit and are retained within the mouth. Denture retention depends significantly on the anatomy of the alveolar ridges and the underlying bone. If anti-BP medication results in changes to these structures, such as atrophy or alterations in bone density, the fit of the dentures may be compromised. A poor fit can lead to issues like lack of suction, instability during function (e.g., chewing and speaking), and overall dissatisfaction with the dentures. While comfort during wear, visual appearance, and cleaning and maintenance are important aspects of denture care and use, these factors are less directly impacted by the physiological changes induced by bisphosphonates compared to retention. Therefore, understanding the relationship between bone health, denture fit, and the effects of anti-BP medications is crucial for dental practitioners managing patients on these medications.