Ace the ADEX Dental Hygiene Exam 2026 – Sparkle Your Smile and Your Career!

The superior constrictor muscle plays a key role in influencing the distal-lingual area of the mandibular flange of a denture. This muscle is part of the pharyngeal constrictor group and is located in the area surrounding the throat and oral cavity. Its function includes the contraction of the pharynx during swallowing and the elevation of the pharynx, which can directly impact the seal and stability of a mandibular denture.

When considering how the denture interacts with the oral cavity structures, the superior constrictor muscle's position and function are crucial. It helps to establish a proper seal and can affect how the denture rests against the soft tissues and bony areas of the mandible, particularly in the distal-lingual regions where retention is vital.

Understanding the relationship between the muscles of the oral cavity and the fit of dentures is essential for dental hygiene practitioners, as well-fitting dentures rely on the cooperation of both the prosthetic and the oral musculature.