Explains what a removable partial denture is for and how partially edentulous arches are grouped by the position of their gaps using the Kennedy classification, with a table and a diagram. It then takes the parts of the denture one by one, covering major connectors for the lower and upper jaws, rests, direct and indirect retainers, bases and teeth, and lists the requirements for connectors. It closes by comparing acrylic resin and cast metal framework dentures.
Topic 54 of 75 in the MU Sofia syllabus for Preclinics of Dental Prosthetics (Dental Medicine, Year 2). The free AceMed note covers it in 5 sections, about 134 words (3 min of reading), with 13 flashcards.
In this note
Introduction
Kennedy classification
Components
Major connectors
Two kinds of RPD
Introduction
A removable partial denture (RPD) replaces missing teeth for a partially edentulous patient who can't have, or doesn't want, a bridge. The patient takes it out and puts it back without help. It restores chewing, speech and appearance, and stops the remaining teeth drifting into the gaps.
Kennedy classification
Partially edentulous arches are grouped by where the gaps are, because this decides how the denture is supported.
Additional gaps are modification spaces (e.g. Class II, modification 1). The most posterior gap decides the class, and the arch is classified after any planned extractions.
Major connectors
Requirements of major connectors
Rigid, so forces are spread across the arch.
Don't impinge on the gingiva or movable tissues; relieved over tori and the median raphe.
Don't trap food or interfere with the tongue.
Made of a biocompatible alloy; smooth and comfortable.
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