A simplified procedure for survey and design of diagnostic casts

The procedure described for survey and design of diagnostic casts is applicable to either dental arch. It is presented in a sequential manner, is not complex, and will produce uniformly acceptable results. The following steps should be followed: (1) locate a path by tilting the cast; (2) mark the survey lines and tripod the cast; (3) outline the rest and guide planes; (4) draw minor connectors; (5) draw major connectors; (6) draw retention mesh for acrylic resin; (7) draw acrylic resin base extension; and (8) draw direct retainers (clasps).