A useful solution to a space problem--a striking plate

The natural dentition can be of fundamental importance to the prognosis of a partial denture when the teeth are within the same arch as the prosthesis. However, when the natural teeth oppose the edentulous area, a number of problems can present. One such problem can be the decrease of space for standard denture components. Solutions to this problem may involve increasing the vertical dimension or reducing the crown height of the opposing natural dentition. Both of these methods have significant disadvantages and this article describes an alternative solution using a 'striking plate' constructed in cobalt chromium.