Frequency of Use of the Various Classes of Removable Partial Dentures and Selection of Major Connectors and Direct / Indirect Retainers

Authors: FİLİZ KEYF

Abstract: Selecting the individually suitable form of and location for the major connectors in partially edentulous patients is important. The purpose of classifying removable partial dentures (RPDs) is to simplify identification. Classification also allows for a longitudinal comparison of various classes of RPDs as well as the determination of whether the teaching of RPD design is consistent with the relative frequencies of RPD use. This study surveyed the various types of RPDs being fabricated in a dental laboratory and compared those findings with the data from a previous study. Results indicated that mandibular RPDs are more common than maxillary RPDs, and the class I mandibular RPD is the most commonly used type of RPD for the mandibular arch, while the class II maxillary RPD is the most commonly used type of RPD for the maxillary arch. A combination of anterior and posterior palatal strap-type major connectors was the most frequently used maxillary major connector, and in the mandibular arch the lingual plate was used approximately three times more often than a lingual bar. Cast circumferential clasps were used two times more often than cast bar clasp designs. The percentage of Kennedy class I RPDs was 43.37%, class II 38.44% and class III 18.18%. Class IV was not seen. Comparisons with Curtis' study have revealed that the percentage of Kennedy class I and IIs have increased, whereas the proportion of class III RPDs has not changed. Findings of the study indicate that the frequency of the various types of RPDs has not changed in the past ten years.

Keywords: Removable partial denture, major connectors, direct/indirect retainers

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