Baseplate
A rigid or semi-rigid temporary foundation placed on an edentulous cast to support occlusal rims during the clinical record-taking stages of complete denture fabrication.
Full Definition
A baseplate is a temporary record base, typically made from shellac, thermoplastic sheet, or autopolymerising acrylic resin, which replicates the shape of the finished denture base and is used to support occlusal wax rims during jaw relation records and trial denture try-in appointments. In dental laboratory workflows, accurate baseplates are critical because an ill-fitting baseplate will cause erroneous jaw relation records, compromising the final prosthesis. Editors should note that 'baseplate' is written as one word, not 'base plate.' It is distinct from the 'denture base,' which is the finished resin portion of the completed denture.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one unhyphenated word: 'baseplate.' Distinguish from 'denture base,' which refers to the permanent acrylic or resin portion of the finished prosthesis.
In Context
- "The laboratory fabricated a shellac baseplate and wax occlusal rim for the jaw relation appointment." — Laboratory work order
- "'Baseplate' should be written as a single word throughout the denture fabrication protocol document." — Style consistency note