A Survey of Retention and Support for Anterior Bounded Saddles of Removable Partial Dentures

The treatment for the anterior bounded saddle because of missing teeth presents several challenges, primarily that of aesthetics. The choice of treatment depends on the position of the saddle, its size, the amount of available alveolar bone support, the health of the abutment teeth, and the patient's wishes.With regard to the use of a removable partial denture (RPD), while acknowledging the significant importance of aesthetics, unless the presence of adequate retention of the prosthesis is ensured, the appearance of the teeth alone will not guarantee its acceptability.This article highlights techniques that are available to provide adequate retention which will, in turn, give a patient confidence with the use of their denture. The techniques described are dependent on laboratory technical knowledge and skills, and on the ability of the patient to manipulate the appliance.