Combination syndrome - Click here

Combination syndrome is a prosthodontic condition that occurs in patients with a maxillary complete denture opposing a mandibular distal extension removable partial denture (Kennedy Class I or II). The syndrome results from altered occlusal forces and lack of posterior maxillary tooth support.

Characteristic features include resorption of the anterior maxillary ridge, enlarged maxillary tuberosities, palatal papillary hyperplasia, extrusion of mandibular anterior teeth, and loss of vertical dimension of occlusion. These changes lead to instability of the maxillary denture and compromised function and esthetics.

Management focuses on preventing further ridge resorption, restoring posterior support through implant-assisted prostheses when possible, correcting occlusal discrepancies, and designing dentures that distribute forces evenly.