Which muscle most affects the lingual border of a mandibular complete denture?

The mylohyoid muscle plays a crucial role in the anatomy of the floor of the mouth and significantly affects the lingual border of a mandibular complete denture. This muscle forms a thin, muscular layer that runs from the mandible to the hyoid bone and supports the oral cavity's integrity.

When fitting a complete denture, the mylohyoid muscle's position and function are essential. It helps determine the appropriate depth and contour of the denture's lingual aspect to ensure proper retention and stability during function, such as speaking and chewing. Effective adaptation to the mylohyoid muscle allows better positioning of the denture, thereby improving comfort and functionality.

In contrast, the other muscles listed, such as the mentalis, geniohyoid, and digastric, do not have as direct an impact on the lingual border of a mandibular denture. The mentalis primarily affects the chin and lower lip area. The geniohyoid is located more superiorly and does not influence the lingual contour significantly. The digastric muscle aids in the depression of the mandible but again is not a primary factor in shaping the lingual border of a mandibular complete denture. Therefore, the