What is true regarding distal free end saddles?

Distal free end saddles are a type of removable partial denture that relies on support from teeth located in front of the saddle while the back end is unsupported, commonly referred to as the "distal extension." Due to their design, these saddles usually experience more movement during function because they are not anchored by any teeth at the distal end, which makes them inherently less stable than tooth-supported dentures.

As a result, distal free end saddles tend to adapt more to the underlying tissue over time, requiring more frequent relining to maintain a proper fit and comfort for the patient. Relining is necessary to accommodate changes in the shape of the underlying bone and soft tissue because these areas can change due to tooth loss and natural bone resorption.

In contrast, tooth-supported dentures typically have a more stable foundation as they are anchored to adjacent teeth, minimizing the changes that impact their fit and reducing the need for frequent relining. This is why the option regarding the increased relining requirement for distal free end saddles is accurate.

The options regarding stability and balancing occlusion do not hold true in relation to distal free end saddles, reinforcing the correctness of the choice that highlights the need for more frequent relining due to their design and how