To enhance the stability of a lower denture, where should the occlusal plane be positioned?

To enhance the stability of a lower denture, the occlusal plane should be positioned below the tongue. This positioning is crucial because it allows the denture to establish better contact with the surrounding tissues in the lower arch, particularly the alveolar ridge and the floor of the mouth. When the occlusal plane is below the tongue, it takes advantage of the natural anatomical contours of the oral cavity, allowing for better retention and stability of the denture during function, such as chewing and speaking.

Positioning the occlusal plane at tongue level or above the tongue may hinder the denture's stability, as it could disrupt the relationship between the denture base and the underlying tissue. Moreover, a higher occlusal plane might not adequately engage the available soft tissue for support, making the denture more prone to movement.

Maintaining the occlusal plane below the tongue also helps ensure that the tongue can function properly without interfering with the stability of the denture. This aspect is particularly important in lower dentures, where the tongue plays a significant role in manipulation, stability, and retention.

The direct positioning of the occlusal plane on the upper palate is not applicable in this context, as that relates more to the upper denture rather