A new attachment system for removable partial dentures.

Abstract

How a removable partial denture (RPD) attaches to its abutment teeth is the most important aspect of partial denture design. The reason is obvious: Many critical requirements for optimal design are dependent on the way the removable segment is related and secured to the abutment teeth. To appreciate the importance of the attachment design, it is necessary to understand several principles of overall RPD design. State-of-the-art RPD design is often the most effective means for achieving long-term maintainable health of the remaining teeth. Even weakened teeth with compromised bone support can, with good design, often be used effectively as abutments for RPDs while benefitting from the removable partial.