Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for functionally balancing the structure of a human mouth. With the method and apparatus of the invention, a pressure equalizing member is utilized wherein an occlusal surface of the posterior teeth of one jaw or denture are covered by a layer of a moldable substance that quickly cures to a hardened shape retaining form. The patient in whose mouth the moldable substance has been placed chews against the resistance offered by the pressure equilizing member so as to engrave the patient's chewing pattern on the opposed occlusal surface of the soft moldable layer. The pressure equalizing member is then removed from the patient's denture and a gap in the occlusal surface is filled with a moldable substance which after hardening overcomes prior art deficiencies to which the invention relates.

Abstract: An edentulous impression correlator includes a support of adjustable configuration and a handle. The support is adjusted to fit an individual patient's mouth and a quantity of impressionable material placed on it. Then the support and material is positioned within the patient's mouth, with the handle protruding, and an impression is made to form a bite record including the upper vault and the lower ridge crest. The support is removed from the mouth and the material is removed from the support by sliding it over the handle.

Abstract: Artificial posterior teeth of non-interlocking construction having flat surfaces parallel to the plane of lateral tooth movement that form a major portion of the occlusal surfaces. Since the teeth can freely slide laterally on one another, side stresses that would tend to shift the dentures are avoided, even though a cross-bite setup is used. Each tooth has a laterally extending, food positioning and holding groove and one or more spillways thereon that permit fluids and comminuted food to escape, thereby reducing hydraulic pressure.