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Subjective reactions to major connector designs for removable partial dentures
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|May 1, 1977
Summary
Dentists preferred maxillary major connectors with broad posterior straps and mandibular lingual bars over lingual plates. Patient adaptation to removable partial denture frameworks was best with minimal soft tissue coverage.
Area of Science:
- Dental Prosthodontics
- Biomaterials Science
- Clinical Dentistry
Background:
- Removable partial dentures (RPDs) are crucial for restoring function and aesthetics.
- Major connector design significantly impacts patient comfort and RPD success.
- Limited data exists on novice RPD wearer preferences for specific connector designs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate dentist preferences for various maxillary and mandibular major connector designs.
- To assess the influence of connector finish and border orientation on patient tolerance.
- To determine optimal major connector characteristics for patient adaptation in new RPD wearers.
Main Methods:
- Simulated partial denture frameworks were fabricated for 12 dentists with no prior RPD experience.
- Major connector designs were modified over a one-week interval.
- Data was collected via questionnaires assessing preferences and tolerance.
Main Results:
- Maxillary connector preferences: broad posterior strap > anteroposterior bar > ring-type > full palatal coverage.
- Mandibular lingual bar was preferred over lingual plate (3:1 ratio).
- Natural palatal finish preferred over polished; borders parallel to tongue movement better tolerated.
Conclusions:
- Dentist preferences indicate a leaning towards less tissue coverage for major connectors.
- Minimal soft tissue coverage and specific border orientations enhance patient adaptation.
- Findings provide valuable insights for designing more comfortable and acceptable RPD frameworks.