VERTICAL DIMENSION

• Will’s gauge
• If VD error happens – then the only option is new denture!
• VD at rest – VD at occlusion = 2-4mm ( freeway space )
• Mandible should be at a physiologic position
• Errors are noted on VD at – occlusion

Increased VD
- Reduced inter-occlusal space ⸫ TMJ pain
- Tenderness of muscle ⸫ difficulty in swallowing
- Increase in lower facial height
- Erythema at denture-bearing sight, which occurs within a week
- Cheek bite ( due to decreased horizontal overlap between the teeth ⸫ to manage – trim buccal cusp of mandibular teeth
- Clicking of teeth during speech ( also seen in ceramic crowns, no retention of dentures )

Decreased VD
1. Increase in Freeway space
 drooping of corners of the mouth
 angular cheilitis
 other reasons
----Candidiasis
----iron deficiency anemia
----riboflavin deficiency
2. Decreased lower facial height--> thinning of lips
3. TMJ pain