[Direct retention of the partial denture]

Direct retainers or clasps are the most demanding structural elements of the partial denture. Numerous clasps which are presented in the literature are divided into two main groups according to their design and function: clasps with occlusal approach (circumferential clasps) and clasps with gingival approach (vertical projection clasps). Number of clasps described in the article are satisfactory for creative design of all removable dentures in the partially edentolous mouth.