The effect of variation of residual ridge angle on partial denture abutment tooth movement

Using a laboratory model simulating a free-end saddle partial denture situation, the effect of variation of the angulation of the crest of the residual alveolar ridge to the horizontal on movement of the abutment tooth and saddle was observed. It was found that the inclination of the residual ridge affected the direction and magnitude of abutment tooth movement. The direction of abutment tooth movement was not related to the position of the occlusal rest. However, the magnitude of saddle and abutment tooth movement is affected by the design of the clasp used.