Removable Partial Denture Components

Components of a Removable Partial Denture (RPD)

• A removable partial denture includes components like the framework, rests, clasps, and acrylic or resin bases.
• Unsupported components might include permanent fixtures like fixed bridges or implants.

Function of Support in an RPD

• Support in an RPD refers to the distribution of forces during chewing and helps stabilize the denture.
• It prevents the denture from moving away from the underlying tissues, minimizing discomfort or damage.

Types of RPD Support

• The tooth-supported RPD relies entirely on the remaining natural teeth for stability and retention.
• This type of RPD is ideal for patients with sufficient healthy teeth to provide support.

Difference Between Tooth-Supported and Tooth-Tissue Supported RPD

• Tooth-supported RPD: Depend primarily on natural teeth for support, promoting greater stability.
• Tooth-tissue supported RPD: Utilize both natural teeth and the underlying soft tissues for support, often used when there are fewer remaining teeth.

Classification of RPD

• Tooth-tissue supported RPD falls under the classification that is dependent on the combination of natural teeth and supporting tissues for adequate function.