{{other uses|Neutral zone (disambiguation)}} In [[dentistry]], the '''neutral zone''' refers to that space in the [[oral cavity]] where the forces exerted by the musculature of the [[tongue]] are equal and balanced with the forces exerted by the [[buccinator muscle]] of the cheek [[Lateral (anatomy)|laterally]] and the [[orbicularis oris muscle]] [[anterior]]ly.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Gupta|first=KL|author2=Agarwal, S |title=Salvation of a severely resorbed mandibular ridge with a neutral zone technique.|journal=Indian Journal of Dental Research|date=Nov–Dec 2011|volume=22|issue=6|pages=883|pmid=22484902|url=http://www.ijdr.in/article.asp?issn=0970-9290;year=2011;volume=22;issue=6;spage=883;epage=883;aulast=Gupta|doi=10.4103/0970-9290.94699|doi-access=free}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Marc Geissberger|title=Esthetic Dentistry in Clinical Practice|date=8 July 2013|publisher=John Wiley & Sons, 2013|isbn=9781118694930|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gSINAAAAQBAJ&dq=neutral+zone+dentistry&pg=SA4-PA57}}</ref>
In other words, it is the ''potential space'' between the lips and cheeks on one side and the tongue on the other; where the ''forces'' between the two are ''equal''. Other synonyms include: zone of equilibrium, zone of minimal conflict, potential denture space and dead space. It is in this zone that the natural dentition lie, and this is where artificial teeth of complete [[dentures]] should be positioned. Complete dentures that are constructed in this way exhibit ''enhanced stability, retention and comfort''.
The neutral zone is an important concept in [[prosthodontics]], because prosthetic teeth generally must conform to the horizontal position determined by the neutral zone. Prostheses which set teeth outside this zone risk problems such as discomfort, cheek or tongue biting, and instability of the denture.
The neutral zone is also important in [[orthodontics]]. Moving teeth outside of this zone means that the muscular forces on the teeth will be out of balance in one direction, and tend to be more likely to relapse to their original position.
== Indications == The neutral zone technique is indicated in cases where there has been: * Extensively resorbed mandibular ridge (minimal bone available to support a denture) * Patients with neurological conditions * Patients who have previously had partial [[glossectomy|glossectomies]], mandibular resection and/or motor nerve damage to the tongue * Where dental implants are not feasible
== Advantages and Disadvantages == Advantages of constructing a denture within the neutral zone include: * ''Improved stability and retention'' of complete dentures (particularly lower complete dentures) * Correct positioning of posterior artificial teeth allows for ''sufficient tongue space'' * ''Reduced food trapping'' * ''Improved aesthetics'' due to facial support
Disadvantages include: * Increased clinical time * Increased laboratory costs
==References== {{Portal|Medicine}} {{reflist}}
[[Category:Dentistry]]