CONNECTORS IN

REMOVABLE PARTIAL
DENTURE
PRESENTED BY
DR. SUKHJIT KAUR

No component of a Removable Partial

Denture should be added arbitrarily or
conventionally. Each component should
be added for a good reason and to
serve a definite purpose.
- McCracken

Introduction
Choosing one of the possible procedures for restoring
partially edentulous arch involves border line
decisions.
If the relationship between the biologic behaviour of
the oral structures and the mechanical influence of the
denture is recognized we can provide a partial
denture.
The major connector may be compared with the frame
of an automobile or with the foundation of the
building.
Major connector must be rigid.
It is the dentists responsibility to ensure appropriate
design and fabrication.

CONNECTORS
The various components of
removable partial dentures are
connected together by connectors.
Connectors are described as being
either
A-Majorconnectors.
B. Minorconnectors

Functions of connectors:
Joining the component parts of the denture
together.
Contributetothesupport of the prosthesis, by
distribution of stresses applied to the prosthesis.
They may contribute to the functionsofbracing
and reciprocation
Contribute to retention of the prosthesis
Connectors resting on prepared dental or firm oral
tissues provide indirectretention (Connectors
that are relieved from the underlying tissues or lie
on inclined surfaces do not provide indirect
retention.)

Classification
a)According tothe materials:
Metallicornon metallic.
b) Accordingtothe rigidity: Rigid or nonrigid(stress breaking)
c) According tothedimensions: Bar(68mm), strap (8-12mm)or plate(>12mm).
If a plate covers whole of the palate, it is
termed complete palatal plate.
d)According tothe location:
Maxillaryormandibular.

Principles for design for major

connectors:
L-bar or L-beam principle.
Circularconfiguration.
Strut configuration.

MAJOR CONNECTOR
Definition
A major connector is the component of
the partial denture that connects the parts
of the prosthesis located on one side of
the arch with those on the opposite side.
It is that unit of the partial denture to
which all other parts are directly or
indirectly attached.

Desirable characteristics of major

connectors
The major connector should be rigid to
effectively distribute stress.
Impingement of free gingival margin should
be avoided.
Borders of major connector should run
parallel to the gingival margin of teeth.
Adequate rests must be provided for the
major connector.
Should not create food traps.
Should not cause discomfort to the tissues.

Should not alter the natural contour of

the palatal vault or the lingual surface
of the lower alveolar ridge.
Should be non-interfering and nonirritating to the tongue.
Should not interfere with speech and
phonetics.
Should not cover more tissue than
absolutely necessary.
Should be made of a material
compatible with the oral tissues.

Materials used for Major connectors

In 1920, Frederick Hauptmyer, from Germany
described the process and material used in
fabrication of the frame work. The material
employed was an alloy of 18-8 type 18%
chromium and 8% Nickel.
In 1929 Erdle and Prange developed a technique
as well as castings from chromium cobalt tungsten
type of alloy, which was called as Vitallium.
In 1930 another chromium-cobalt alloy was
patented and marketed under the name of
Ticonium. During the mid 20th century, 20
different brands of chromium cobalt alloys were
marketed.

Various alloys that can be used in

constructing removable partial denture
are:
Type IV gold alloy.
Nickel-chromium.
Cobalt-chromium.
Co-Cr-Ni.
Titanium and its alloys.

Base metal alloys have relatively high elastic

modulus. This property suggest that the
thickness of partial denture frameworks can be
thinner than those of other metals.
The ductility of titanium is greater than that of
the others.
Base metal alloys have higher hardness
compared with tooth enamel which causes in
vivo wear.
Alloys for partial denture frameworks have high
melting points and they exhibit high casting
shrinkage with potential for casting defects.

Maxillary Major Connectors

STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS OF MAXILLARY MAJOR
CONNECTOR
Placement of borders- 6mm from gingival margin
Metal should not be highly polished on tissue
surface
Relief of major connector- generally not required
Thickness of major connector- uniform throughout
Future loss of additional teeth
Internal/external finish lines
Tissue stops
beading

Criteria for selection of the maxillary major

connector
Rigidity
The Presence of Palatal Tori
The Need for Anterior Tooth Replacement
The Requirement for Indirect Retention
The Need to Stabilize Weakened Teeth
Phonetic Considerations
The Mental Attitude of the Patient

Maxillary Major Connectors

Palatal bars

single or combined

Palatal straps single or combined

Palatal plates anterior, palatal
and
complete
palatal plate

Maxillary Major Connectors

Single palatal bar
Single palatal strap
U-shaped palatal connector
Combination anterior-posterior palatal
bars
Combination anterior and posterior
palatal strap-type connector
Palatal plate-type connector
Split maxillary major connector

Single Palatal Bar

Anterior: never used alone, FLAT crosssection
6mm behind gingival margin/anterior
teeth
Middle: in short bounded saddles,
comfortable, inconspicuous. Provides
support and bracing. FLAT cross-section
Posterior: bounded unilateral saddles, 2nd
premolar or 1st molar missing, at jn of hard
and soft palate or in line with 2 nd molar
also provides indirect retention in class II
cases, HALF OVAL cross-section

Single Palatal Bar

less than 8 mm in width
narrow half oval
Narrow anterio-posteriorly
Thick occluso-gingivally(1.5)
Palatal bar objectionable
due to bulk

Indications
To replace one or two
teeth on each side of
arch and placed no
further anteriorly than
the second premolar
position. There must
be teeth capable of
bearing an additional
load both anteriorly
and posteriorly to the
edentulous space.

Contraindications
In distal extension
situation and when
anterior teeth are to
be replaced.

Advantages
It can be used in an
interim partial
denture until a
more definitive
treatment can be
considered.

Disadvantages
Most difficult for the
patient to adjust as to
maintain the degree of
rigidity, it has to be made
bulky.
Due its narrow anteriorposterior width, it derives
little vertical support from
the bony palate and must
be therefore supported
positively by rests on the
remaining natural teeth.

Palatal Strap

Most versatile therefore most widely used.

It consists of a wide thin barrel of metal that
crosses the palate in an unobtrusive manner.
It should not be less than 8mm wide.
Usually used for Class III & IV cases

Palatal Strap

Anterior palatal strap/ anterior palatal plate:

Middle palatal strap: is the most versatile and
widely used maxillary major connector
Indications
a. Tooth borne andtooth and tissue borne unilateral
edentulous spaces for cross arch stabilization.
b. May beused for mostmaxillary tooth
bornepartial dentures when posterior teeth are
missing.
c. May be used fortooth-mucosa bornepartial
dentures when minimalpalatal support is required

Posterior palatal strap: This is

basically a wide palatal bar, because
it is wider it may be made thinner, it
should be a minimum of 8mm. in
width, and 1.5mm thickness
Indicated in maxillaryunilateral
tooth borne RPDs of short span.

Advantages
Because the palatal strap is located in three
planes it offers great resistance to bending and
twisting forces. Thus greater rigidity with less
bulk of metal is produced.
It can be kept thin, thus increasing patient
comfort.
Little interference to tongue action and as a
result is accepted well.
It helps distribute stress over a broad area.
Retention is enhanced by the intimate contact
between the metal and soft tissue.
The strap also contributes some indirect
retention.

Disadvantages
The patient may complain of
excessive palatal coverage. This
complaint frequently can be traced to improper
positioning of the strap borders.

Adverse soft tissue reaction in the

form of papillary hyperplasia. This
condition is seen when the partial denture is
worn 24 hours a day and is normally
accompanied by poor oral hygiene and poor care
of the prosthesis.

Indications
Used only when 1 or 2 teeth are
being replaced on either side.
Edentulous spaces are tooth bound
Need for palatal support is
minimal.

Palatal Strap (or Bar)

Contraindications

Never use in cases involving

distal extensions or
replacement of anterior
teeth since it must be made
bulky for rigidity
Bony/ prominent mid-palatal
raphe
Torus palatinus

Structural Details
The palatal strap should be made wide and
thin, rather than narrow and thick, to achieve
the required rigidity and to be as innocuous as
possible to the tongue.
The anterior and posterior borders of the
strap should be lightly beaded to ensure
intimate contact with the mucosa, except
over hard structures such as a prominent
median raphe or a torus palatinus.
Waxing Specification
Anatomic replica pattern in 22- 24 gauge,
matte plastic pattern.

Anterior-Posterior Palatal Strap

Maximum rigidity
Minimum bulk
Use in most cases
Especially torus palatinus

Parallelogram shaped
Relatively broad(8 to 10 mm) anterior and
posteriorpalatal straps.
Lateral palatal straps (7 to 9 mm) narrow and
parallel to curve ofarch;minimum of6 mm from
gingival crevicesof remainingteeth orshould extend
above the height of contourof the teeth
Anterior palatal strap
anterior border positioned as back as possible on the
rugae area,not placedfarther anteriorlythan anterior
rests and never closer than6 mm to lingual gingival
crevices; follows thevalleys of therugaeat right
angles tothe median palatal suture.
Posterior border if in rugae area, follows valleys of
rugae at right angles to the median palatal suture

Posterior palatal connector

posterior border located atjunctionofhard and soft palates and
at right angles tomedianpalatal suture and extended
tohamular notch area(s)on distal extension side(s).
Advantages
The closed horseshoe is a rigid connector that derives good
support from the palate even though an opening is provided in
the palate.
The corrugated contour of the metal over the rugae adds
strength to the connector and allows the metal to be made
thinner.
The circle effect of the anterior and posterior straps contributes
to the rigidity of the connector.
The shape of this connector also provides a definite L-beam
effect.
Disadvantages
Even though the metal over thin rugae area may be thinner than
in some other major connectors, interference with phonetics
may occur in some patients.
In addition, the extensive length of borders for the tongue to
contact may cause annoyance or discomfort.

Anterior-Posterior Palatal Strap

Indications:
Class I and II arches in which excellent abutment and
residual ridge support exists, and direct retention can be
madeadequate without theneed for indirect retention.
Long edentulous spans in Class II,modification1 arches.
Class IV arches in which anterior teeth must be replaced
with a removable partial denture
Inoperable palatal torithat donot extendposteriorly to
the junction of the hard andsoft palates.
In tooth borne, and mucosa borne partial dentures when
replacement ofanterior and posterior teeth is required.

Contraindications
When there is an inoperable maxillary torus
that extends posteriorly to the soft palate. In
this situation a broad U-shaped major
connector may be used.
Waxing specifications
Anatomic replica patternsor mattesurface
forms of22-gauge thickness
Posterior palatal componentA strap of22gauge thickness, 8to 10mm wide (a half-oval
form of approximately 6-gauge thickness and
width) may also be used

Anterior-Posterior Palatal Bar

A narrow (A-P) variation of anteriorposterior palatal strap
Double palatal bar connector
Requires greater bulk for rigidity

The two bars may be made wider or thinner, as

dictated by the needs and the available space,
in the particular case.
The flat anterior bar is narrower than the palatal
strap. Its borders are positioned in the valleys
between the rugae, never on the rugae crests.
The posterior bar is half-oval, similar to the
single posterior palatal bar connector but less
bulky.
The two bars are joined by flat longitudinal
elements on each side of the lateral slopes of
the palate, giving circle/ ring configuration
The two bars, lying in different planes, produce
a structurally strong L-beam effect.

Indications
when support is not a major consideration
and when the anterior and posterior
abutments are widely separated.
for the maxillary arch which has a torus
palatinus that is either undercut,
lobulated, or too massive to be covered
with a full coverage connector or a strap.
The Patient's Mental Attitude: The A-P bar
may be used as a compromise for the
patient who strongly objects to the
greater bulk or area coverage of the full
palatal connector.

Contraindications
Periodontally weakened remaining teeth.
should not be considered as a first choice for
a maxillary major connector.
when a high narrow vault is present because the
anterior bar will interfere with phonetics.
When torus palatinus extends posteriorly to the
junction of hard and soft palate.

Anterior-Posterior Palatal Bar

Advantages

The main
advantage of the
antero-posterior
palatal bar is its
rigidity. In
comparison to the
amount of soft
tissue coverage, it
is by far the most
rigid maxillary
major connector.

Disadvantages
The antero-posterior
palatal bar is frequently
uncomfortable due to the
extra bulk of metal
needed for the narrow
bars. Also the many
borders of the bars are a
nuisance because the
tongue tends to want to
investigate them.
Less support from the
palate as tissue contact is
less.
May interfere with
speech- especially the
anterior bar.

Complete Palatal Plate

A palatal plate connectorcovers half or more
of the palatal surface.
It is a uniformly shaped, thin plate reproducing
the anatomic contour of the palate. It is
characterized by wide palatal coverage
contributing to maximum support and retention,
also helps in horizontal stabilization and bracing
of the restoration.

Indications
Bilateral Distal Extension Bases:
Six Remaining Anterior Teeth:
It may be used as a plate of varying width that covers the
area between two or more edentulous areas
When the last remaining abutment tooth on either side of
a Class I arch is the canine or first premolar tooth,
complete palatal coverage is strongly advised, especially
in resorbed residual ridges
In individuals with well-developed muscles of mastication
and a full complement of mandibular teeth, heavy
occlusal forces can be anticipated
When flat or flabby ridges or a shallow vault is present
Occasionally, patients are treated with a transitional
partial denture in preparation for treatment with a
complete denture.
Cleft palate patients have a narrow, steep palatal vault.
To gain intimate tissue contact and to close any patent
air passages between the nasal and oral cavities, a cast
complete palate is most often the connector of choice.

Contraindication
Presence of tori which cannot be
surgically removed.
When patient can not tolerate full
palate coverage due to
exaggerated gag reflex or other
psychological reasons.

Complete Palatal Plate

ADVANTAGES
well tolerated by most ofthe patients due to
uniformthinness and the thermal conductivity of the
metal
The plate covering different palatal planes provide
morerigidity.
The extensive area coverage contributes to:
a-Wide distributionof load and maximum support.
b-Horizontal stabilization
c-Direct-indirect retention due to the extended
extension
The plate may help in splinting periodontally weak
teeth.
It offers maximum rigidity, support and retention to
the partial denture

Complete Palatal Plate

Disadvantages:
The plate cannot be used in the presence
of palatine tori.
Full coverage maycause tissue
inflammation ifadequate oral hygiene is
not practiced and it may cause
alterationin taste.
Complete palatal coverage may alter
taste and tactile sensation

Types of complete palatal plates

All cast Metal
plate:
Complete cast metal
plate covering
whole or more than
half of the palate.

Resin plate: Complete resin plate

covering thepalate.

Combination,metal,andresin
plate:
Anterior metallicpart having
provisions for mechanical retention
to attach an acrylic posterior
portion.

The posterior palatal seal that is

used with complete dentures
should not be employed with a
removable partial denture.

Anterior Palatal Plate

(U-Shaped or "Horse-Shoe" Palatal Connector)

Poor connector
Never use unless
absolutely
necessary
Requires bulk in the
rugae area (where
the tongue requires
freedom) for rigidity

U-SHAPED PALATAL CONNECTOR/ HORSESHOE SHAPED CONNECTOR

It consists ofU-shaped thin band of metal. The
Anterior borderplaced 6 mm away from the
gingival margin lying in the valleys rather than
the crests of the rugae area.
Posterior border at right angle to median
suture line.
If the strap carried onto thecingula, the gingival
marginmustbe lightly relieved.
The lateral borders lies atthe junction of
thehorizontal and vertical slopes of the palate.
All borders should be curved, smooth and beaded

Indications
Can be used in case of a large inoperable
tori
When several anterior teeth are to be
replaced.
In case of patients with exaggerated gag
reflex.
When periodontally weakened anterior teeth
need some stabilizing support.
Contraindications
Distal extension partial dentures.
RPDs in which cross arch stabilization is required.

Advantages
It is a reasonably strong connector that can derive some vertical
support and some indirect retention from the palate.
In patients with considerable vertical overlap of the anterior
teeth, the horseshoe is thin yet strong enough to support the
replacement teeth.
In the presence of a hard median suture line or an inoperable
torus, the anomaly can be avoided without sacrificing strength
or loss of vertical support.
Disadvantages
When vertical force is applied to either or both ends of the
horseshoe major connector, there is a tendency for the
connector to spread or straighten. Therefore it is a poor choice
for a distal extension partial denture.
This is not a good connector when cross-arch stabilization is
required. It has less resistance to flexing, and movement can
occur at the open end.
To avoid the tendency to flex, the metal crossing the rugae area
must be thicker than that used in most other major connectors.
Interferences with phonetics and patient comfort can result.

SPLIT MAJOR CONNECTOR

In clinical functioning of a removable
partial denture there is inevitable
rotation of the denture around
possible fulcrums because of the
unequal nature of the supporting
tissues. This may deliver torquing
forces on the abutment teeth and
their supporting structures.

In a split major connector, the flexibility of the

connector is increased as well as the distance
traveled by the forces to reach to abutments is
more. Therefore the direct transfer of stresses
is minimized.
The double bar principle is used in
form of split major connector. Instead of using
wrought metal, a single cast connector is
made flexible by making a saw cut part way
through the casting or by casting to thin shim;
this is then removed leaving a separation.

Degree of stress release is determined by

the width and thickness of the connection
remaining and by the type ofmetal used.
Separation of the segments should be
wide enough orvery narrow to avoid
pinching the tongue or palatal mucosa.
The cast framework can flex in a single
plane without work hardening and
eventual fracture

Disadvantages
They collect debris and become unclean.
They pinch the underlying soft tissues or
tongue as they open and close under
function.
They become fatigued by repeated
flexing and thus undergo permanent
distortion

DESIGN OF MAXILLARY MAJOR CONNECTORS

Beading of the maxillary cast

Beading is a term used to denote the scribing of a shallow

groove on the maxillary master cast outlining the palatal
major connector exclusive of rugae areas. The purposes
of beading are as follows:
To transfer the major connector design to the investment
cast
To provide a visible finishing line for the casting
To ensure intimate tissue contact of the major connector
with selected palatal tissues
Beading is readily accomplished by using an
appropriate instrument, such as a cleoid carver. Care
must be exercised to create a groove not in excess of 0.5
mm in width or depth at the edge of the design of the
maxillary major connector.
The groove must fade out as it approaches within6mm of
the marginal gingiva. It also should fade out over the
center of the cast when a hard midline suture ispresent. .

Advantages of beading:
Prevents fooddebrisfrom
collectionunder theMajor
Connector.
Provide athinnest metal on the
polished surface while maintain
thenecessary strength. This is due
to the extrathickness of metal
provided by the beading.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Wagner G, Traweek FC (1982) compared
the major connectors for RPD. They compared
the subjective patient reactions to three
maxillary and two mandibular major connector
designs. In this study 20 dentists served as
subjects for the study.
Maxillary MC- Single palatal bar and A-P
palatal bars
Mandibular MC- Lingual bar and Lingual plate.
Most preferred major connector was the single
palatal bar and the mandibular lingual bar.

Ben- Ur Z et al (1999) evaluated the stiffness of different designs

and cross sections of maxillary and mandibular major connector
for RPD.
5 maxillary and 5 mandibular cast Cr- Co alloy was chosen
Points M and P position of first premolar and second molar were
placed 20 mm apart.
Vertical and horizontal forces were applied to each point while
opposite was gripped in an Instron machine,
Mean stiffness was obtained for loading in compression and
torsion.
Differences in stiffness were greater in mandibular major
connector loaded at points M and P.
In maxillary arch
The stiffest was A-P palatal bar.
Most flexible was the U- shaped design.
In mandibular arch
Important factors to achieve rigidity were the Cross Section and
shape of major connector.
The half pear shape proved most rigid.

Beaumont AJ (2002) overviewed the

esthetics with RPD.
Provision for esthetic RPD maybe made with
selection of appropriate major connector.
It is important especially in mandibular arch
where there is diastema or abnormally large
interproximal spaces between teeth.
Major connector selected should not be
observable from conversational distance.
U- Shaped palatal connector is an esthetic
maxillary major connector which maybe applied
when several anterior teeth are to be replaced.

Green K.L, Hondrum S.O. (2003) evaluated the effect of

design modifications on torsional and compressive rigidity of Ushaped palatal connectors.
The aim was to determine the effects of changing width
thickness and shape on rigidity of U- shaped maxillary major
connector.
Ni- Cr alloy frameworks of different thickness were fabricated
on same master cast.
They concluded that:
Thick groups were more rigid than other frameworks when
torsional load was applied and compressive load was 22.42
N/mm2 to premolar area.
A-P strap was more rigid on compression.
Both thick and A-P strap groups were more rigid than notch and
anterior strap groups.
Therefore doubling the thickness of anterior strap of U- shaped
maxillary major connector improved rigidity of framework to
torsional loads.
A posterior strap is more effective in maintaining framework
rigidity to compressive loads when length of arch was
increased.

MANDIBULAR MAJOR
CONNECTORS

Mandibular major connectors used in

partial dentures are either in the form
ofbars orplates
The bars are usually located on the lingual
side of the ridge between the gingival
margin and the floor of the mouth, while
the plates may be extended above the
gingival margin to end on the lingual
surfaces of the natural teeth.

Criteria for selection of mandibular

major connector
Although the maxillary connector is able to
contribute substantially to support the prosthesis,
the mandibular connector has the very limited
capacity for support. Indirect retention is needed
to stabilize the mandibular partial denture.
The requirement of indirect retention.
Horizontal stability and stress distribution.
Anatomical considerations.
Periodontal considerations.
Esthetic considerations.
Patient comfort.

Structural requirements for

mandibular major connectors

1. PLACEMENT OF BORDERS.
a. The superior borders are placed a t least 3 mm from the gingival margins
and parallel to the free gingival margin orfor the lingual plate it should be
extended to the cingulae of the anteriorteeth in which the gingival margin
should be relieved. Where a 3 mm distance from the gingival margins cannot
be obtained, the metal should extend on to the cingula of anterior teeth or
onto the lingual surfaces of the posterior teeth.
b. The inferior border
should be gently rounded above the moving tissues ofthe floor of the mouth
and should not interfere with the soft tissue movement of the floor of the
mouth.
2. Beading is never indicatedbecause of the need for relief under all
mandibularmajor connectors.
3. The metal should be highly polished on the tissue side to minimize
plaque accumulation.
4. RELIEF
Relief (0.5-1mm) must be provided between the mandibular majorconnectors
and the soft tissue to prevent the margins of the connectors from
inflammation or laceration of the friablelingual mucosaduring movement

The amount of relief depends on

a) The type of removable partial denture.-
For anall tooth-supportedprosthesis
aminimum ofrelief isneededbecause the
denture does not tend tomove, (30 gauge,
0.010 inch)-
adistalextensionpartial denture needs
more reliefbecause it tends to rotate during
function.

b) The slope of the lingual

tissue

If Slope of tissue is nearly

vertical; minimal reliefis needed
If Tissue slope toward the
tongue, maximum relief is
needed
If Lingual ridge is undercut; no
additional reliefis required .

c) Relationship of the fulcrum

line to the major connector.
1.Whenthefulcrumlineispos
terior tothemajor
connectorless relief is
usually required (28 gauge,
0.013 inch to26 gauge,
0.016 inch).
2. When the fulcrum line is
anterior tothe major
connector more relief is
usually required (26gauge,
0.016 inchto 24 gauge,
0.020 inch).

d) Quality of supporting structures.

1-Periodontal status of the abutment teeth.
Increased mobility of the abutmentteeth
requires morerelief of themajor connector.
2-Quality of the muco-osseous supporting tissues.
Residual ridges with increased displaceability
may require more relief of the major connector.
3-Bone index. Wherethe residual ridge exhibits a
poorbone index, more relief may be required to
compensate for resorptive changes occurring
priorto anticipated relining.

e) Movement of the dento-alveolar

segment. When the anterior teeth
have a pronounced labial inclination,
more reliefmay be required. It may be
impossible to direct the occlusal forces
along the long axes of the teeth. With
such an inclination, a continued labial
migration ofthe teeth may occur.
f) Lingual tori mayrequire
additionalrelief

Types of major connector

Lingual bar major connector.
Sublingual bar major connector.
Lingual bar with cingulum bar major
connector (continuous bar).
Cingulum bar (continuous bar) major
connector.
Dental bar
Linguoplate major connector.
Labial bar major connector.
Hinged continuous labial bar.

Lingual bar major connector

The basic form of a mandibular major connector
is a half-pear shape, located above moving
tissue but as far below the gingival tissue as
possible.
Advantages:
Lingual bar connector has minimal tissue coverage
and has minimal contact with oral tissues.
It does not contact the teeth, so decalcification of
the tooth surface is minimized.

Disadvantages:
It may be flexible if poorly constructed.
Rigidity is less compared to a well constructed
lingual plate.

Indications:
It should be used for mandibular removal
partial denture where sufficient space exists
between the slightly elevated alveolar lingual
sulcus and lingual gingival tissues.

Contraindications:
Inoperable lingual tori.
Highly attached lingual frenum.
Interferences to elevation of the floor of the
mouth during functional movements.

Characteristics and location

Half-pear shaped with bulkiest portion
inferiorly located.
Superior border tapered to soft tissue.
Superior border located at least 4mm
inferior to gingival margins.
Inferior border located at the ascertained
height of the alveolar lingual sulcus when
the patients tongue is slightly elevated.

Availability of space for connector is one of the

important factor to be considered. At least
7mm of vertical space between the active
tissues of the floor of the mouth and the
gingival margins of the teeth is required.
There are two clinically acceptable methods to
determine relative height of the floor of the
mouth to locate the inferior border of the
major connector.

First method: Patients tongue should

touch the vermillion border of the
upper lip and measurements were
made in relation to the lingual gingival
margins of the adjacent teeth using a
periodontal probe. The readings are
transferred to the master cast.
Second method: This method uses an
individualized impression trays having
its lingual border 3mm short of the
elevated floor of the mouth is molded
with an impression material during
functional movements of tongue.

block-out and relief of master

castAll tissue undercuts parallel to path of placement.
An additional thickness of 32-gauge wax when
the lingual surface of the alveolar ridge is either
undercut or parallel to the path of placement.
No relief is necessary when the lingual surface
slopes inferiorly and posteriorly.
One thickness of base plate wax over basal seat
areas.

Waxing specifications
Six-gauge, half-pear
shaped wax form
reinforced by 22-24
gauge sheet wax adapted
to the design width.
Long bar require more
bulk than short bar.

Finishing lines
Butt joints with minor
connectors for retention
of denture bases.

Z. Ben-Ur, S. Matalon, I. Aviv and H.S. Cardash

(J.P.D. 1989)
Conducted a study to check the rigidity of five lingual
bar type mandibular major connectors with different
cross-sections.
A micrometer microscope and a
system of pulley and weights were used and torsion
forces were measured to compare rigidity. They
concluded that the lingual bar type with half-pear
shaped cross section showed the highest degree of
rigidity. Among the conventional lingual bars the wide
semielliptical bar showed the highest degree of
rigidity and narrow semielliptical bar was most
flexible.

Zee Ben-Ur, Eitan Mijiritsky, Colin Gorfil, and

Tamar Brosh (J.P.D. 1999)
Conducted a study to investigate the design and
cross-sectional shape of major connectors most
favorably influencing rigidity and flexibility. Five
lingual bar major connectors of different crosssectional forms were cast in chrome-cobalt alloy.
Vertical and horizontal forces were applied to each
point while the opposite side was gripped in Instron.
They concluded that the half-pear shaped crosssection proved to be the most rigid major
connector.

Anthony K. Kaires (J.P.D. 1958)

Conducted a study using Electronic means to
know the effect of partial denture design on
functional force distribution in a mandibular
bilateral distal extension denture as it is related
to the supporting tissues and also to determine
what effect the variations of partial denture
designs has on masticatory performance. They
concluded that the effect of partial denture
design on masticatory performance did not
reveal any significant relationship. Generally they
stated that a rigid design is more desirable than
a flexible one in withstanding horizontal stresses.

Linguoplate mandibular major

connector
If the rectangular space
bounded by the lingual
bar, the anterior tooth
contacts and cingula, and
the bordering minor
connectors is filled in, a
lingual plate results.

Advantages:
The linguoplate is a rigid mandibular major connector and it
provides more support and stabilization when compared to
other connectors.
Can be used in stabilizing the periodontally-weakened teeth.
When it is supported at each end by a rest it contributes to
the action of indirect retention.
When properly contoured and fabricated, it will not cause
interference with tongue movements and will be more
comfortable to the patient.

Disadvantages:
It covers the tooth structure and the gingival tissue.
The metal coverage of the free gingival tissue prevents
physiological stimulation and self-cleansing of these areas
by saliva.

Indications:
It is indicated in cases where alveolar lingual sulcus so
closely approximates the lingual gingival crevices such as
high lingual frenum attachments.
If residual ridges in Class I arch have undergone severe
vertical resorption that they will offer only minimal
resistance to horizontal rotation.
It can be used to stabilize periodontally weakened teeth.
When future replacement of one or more incisor teeth
will be facilitated by the addition of retention loops to an
existing linguoplate.

Contraindications:
In lingually inclined mandibular anterior teeth.
Mandibular teeth with wide embrasures and diastema.

Characteristics and location:

Pear shaped with bulkiest portion
inferiorly located.
Thin metal apron extending
superiorly to contact cingula of
anterior teeth and height of
contour of posterior teeth.
Scalloped contour of apron as
dictated by interproximal blockout.
The superior border finished to
continuous plane with contacted
teeth.
Inferior border at the ascertained
height of the alveolar lingual
sulcus when patients tongue is
elevated.

block-out and relief of master cast:

All involved undercuts of contacted teeth
parallel to the path of placement.
All involved gingival crevices.
Lingual surface of alveolar ridge.

Waxing specifications:
Inferior border 6-gauge, half pear shaped wax
form reinforced with 24-gauge sheet wax.
Apron 24-gauge sheet wax.

Finishing lines:
Butt-type joints.

Campbell LD (J.P.D. 1977) conducted a study

to evaluate the multiple removable partial
denture designs by test patients. 8 major
connector designs were evaluated during
speaking, chewing and swallowing and for
general comfort by 12 dentists. They concluded
that the mandibular lingual bar was chosen over
the lingual plate by a 3:1 ratio. Metal borders
parallel to tongue movement were better
tolerated than those lying transverse. In general,
patients adapted best to major connectors that
covered the least amount of soft tissues.

Kenneth R. McHenry, Owe E. Johansson (J.P.D.

1992) conducted a clinical trial using the
experimental gingivitis model developed for
periodontal clinical research to evaluate the effect
of removable partial denture mandibular major
connector design on surrounding gingival tissues. A
comparison between the linguoplate (control) and
cingulum bar (test) major connectors were made at
7 day intervals for 21 days. Results showed a
greater increase in mean gingival inflammation
with the control than with the test suggesting that
cingulum bar has fewer detrimental effects on
gingival tissues than linguoplate.

Sublingual bar major connector:

A modification of the lingual bar that has been
demonstrated to be useful when the height of the floor of
the mouth does not allow placement of superior border of
the connector at least 4-mm below free gingival margin.

Indications:
The height of the floor of the mouth in relation
to the free gingival margin is less than 6mm.
If it is desired to keep the free gingival
margins of anterior teeth exposed and there is
inadequate depth of the floor of the mouth.

Contraindications:
Lingually tilted remaining natural teeth.
Inoperable lingual tori.
High attached lingual frenum.

Characteristics and Location:

It is same as lingual bar except that the
bulkiest portion is located to the lingual and
the tapered portion is towards the labial.
The superior border of the bar should be at
least 3mm from the free gingival margin.
Inferior border is located at the height of the
alveolar lingual surface.

block-out and relief of master cast:

All tissue undercuts parallel to the path of
placement.
Additional thickness of 32-gauge wax when
the lingual surface of alveolar ridges either
undercut or parallel to the path of placement.

Waxing specifications:
6-gauge, half-pear shaped wax form reinforced
by 22-24 gauge sheet wax.
Longer bar bulkier than shorter bar.

Finishing lines:
Butt-type joints.

Karl A. Hansen and Donald J. Campbell

(J.P.D. 1985) conducted a study to evaluate
patient acceptance of the sublingual bar when
compared with lingual plate major connector
and to determine the preferred design. They
concluded

from

the

final

data

that

the

sublingual bar compares favorably with the

lingual plate in patient acceptance and should
be considered as a variable design alternative
when a lingual plate is not indicated.

Mandibular lingual bar with continuous bar

(cingulum bar) or double lingual bar)
This type of major connector is
also called Kennedy bar
It distributes stresses to all of
the teeth with which it comes in
contact there by reducing the
stresses to the underlying
tissues.
It is also referred as continuous
lingual clasp major connector,
because of series of clasp arms
connected on the lingual
surfaces of lower anterior teeth.

Advantages:
The double lingual bar effectively extends indirect retention
in an anterior direction is supported by adequate rest.
It also contributes to horizontal stabilization.
It helps in minor amount of support to the prosthesis.
The gingival tissues and inter-proximal embrasures are not
covered by the connector, which helps in free flow of saliva.

Disadvantages:
Patient may feel discomfort because it alters the normal
position of the tongue.
If connector does not maintain intimate contact with tooth
surface there will be food entrapment.

Indications:
It is mainly used as a major
connector in periodontally
treated anterior teeth with wide
inter-proximal embrasures.
When linguoplate is
contraindicated due to poor
axial alignment of anterior teeth.

Contraindications:
In severely crowded anterior
teeth.

Characteristics and location:

Shaped same as lingual bar.
Thin narrow metal strap located on cingula of anterior teeth
scalloped to follow interproximal embrasures.

block-out and relief of master cast:

Same as for lingual bar.
No relief for continuous bar except block-out of interproximal
spaces.

Waxing specifications:
Same as lingual bar.
Continuous bar pattern found by adapting two strips of 28-gauge
sheet wax over the cingula and into interproximal embrasures.

Finishing lines:
Butt joints.

Mandibular continuous bar/Cingulum

Improper axial alignment of the anterior teeth will necessitate
bar/dental
bar of interproximal undercuts. These types of cases
excessive block-out
indicates continuous bar major connector.
Contraindications:
In lingually tilted anterior teeth.
Wide diastema between mandibular anterior teeth.

Characteristics and Location

Thin narrow metal strap located on cingula of
anterior teeth, scalloped to follow interproximal
embrasures.
Originates bilaterally from rests of the adjacent
principle abutments.

block-out and relief of master cast:

No relief for cingulum bar except interproximal
spaces.

Waxing specifications:
A cingulum bar pattern formed by adapting two
strips of 28-gauge, 3mm wide over the cingula and
into interproximal embrasures.

Finishing lines:
Butt-type joint.

Mandibular labial bar major connector

The labial bar has a limited application in cases where
large inoperable lingual tori and severely lingually
inclined lower anterior and premolars prevents the
use of other mandibular major connectors.

Characteristics and Location:

Half-pear shaped with bulkiest portion inferiorly
located on the labial or buccal aspect.
Superior border tapered to soft tissue and 4mm
inferior to labial gingival margins.
Inferior border located in the labial buccal
vestibule.

block-out and relief of master cast:

All tissue undercuts parallel to path of placement
and when the labial surface is either undercut or
parallel to the path of placement.
No relief if labial surface of alveolar ridge slopes
inferiorly.

Waxing specifications:
6-gauge half-pear shaped wax form
reinforced with 22-24 gauge
Long bar more bulkier than shorter bar.
Minor connector joined with occlusal or
other superior components by a labial
approach.

Finishing line:
Butt-type joints.

Hinged continuous labial bar

This type of major connector is the
modification of linguoplate which is
incorporated in the Swing-lock design
consists of labial or buccal bar i.e.
connected to the major connector by
hinge on one end and latch at the other
end.
Support provided by multiple rests on
the remaining natural teeth. Stabilization
and reciprocation provided by a lingual
plate. Retention is provided by bar type
retentive clasp arms projecting from the
labial or buccal bar and contacting the
infrabulge areas on the labial surfaces.

Indications:
Missing key abutments.
Unfavorable tooth contour.
Unfavorable soft tissue contours.
Teeth with questionable prognosis.

Contraindications:
Poor oral hygiene.
Shallow buccal labial vestibule.
High frenal attachment.

Design of mandibular major connectors

The basic principles of major
connector design includes:
Step I-Outline the basal seat
areas on the diagnostic cast.

Step II-Outline the inferior

border of the major connector.

Step III-Outline the superior

border of the major connector.

Step-IV-Connect the basal seat

area to the inferior and
superior borders of the major
connector and add minor
connectors to retain the acrylic
resin base.

Conclusion
Major connectors by uniting the other components of a
removable partial dentures acts like a foundation bringing
about bilateral distribution of forces which depends on the
rigidity of the connector.
Utmost care should be taken to prevent a major connector
from interfering with normal functions or having any
damaging effects to the remaining oral structure.
Although there are many variations in major connector, a
thorough comprehension of all factors influencing their
design will lead to the best design for each patient.

Minor connectors
DefinitionComponents that serve as the
connecting link between major
connector or base of a removable partial
denture and other components of the
prosthesis such as the clasp assembly,
indirect retainers, occlusal rests or
cingulum rests.

Functions
Primary function-joining
other units of the prostheses
and denture bases to the
major connector.
Transfer functional stresses
to the abutment teeth.
Transfer the effect of
retainers, rests, stabilizing
components throughout the
prostheses.

Distributes the stresses that occur

against certain components of partial
denture to other components.
Distributes forces on the edentulous
ridge to the ridge and the remaining
teeth.

This broad distribution of force prevents any

one tooth or one portion of the edentulous
ridge from bearing a destructive amount of
stress.

Form and location

Sufficient bulk to be rigid.
(2mm wide, 1.5mm thick)
Minor connector contacting axial surface of
abutment teeth should not be located on
convex surface, instead should be located on
the embrasure.
Should conform to the interdental embrasure.
Should be thickest towards the lingual
surface, tapering towards the contact area.

Deepest part of interdental embrasure should

have been blocked out to avoid interference
during placement and removal.
When a minor connector contacts tooth
surfaces on either side of the embrasure in
which it lies, it should be tapered to the
teeth.
Minor connector should be wide enough to
use the guiding plane to the fullest
advantage.
When it gives rise to clasp arm it should be
tapered.

Whenever possible, the minor

connector of a removable partial
denture is located in the interdental
embrasure.

Types
Join the clasp assembly to the major
connector.
Join direct retainers or auxilliary rests
to the major connector.
Join the denture base to the major
connector.
Serve as an approach arm for a
vertical projection or bar type.

Minor connectors that join the clasp assembly to

the major connector.
Should be rigid to support the active
component of the partial denture, the
retentive clasp.
Support the component of the prosthesis
that prevents vertical movement towards
the tissue (Rest).
Located on proximal surfaces
of teeth adjacent to edentulous
areas.

Should be broad buccolingually but thin

mesiodistally.
If clasp assembly is not being placed on
a tooth adjacent to an edentulous
space, minor connector must be
positioned in embrasure between two
teeth.
Never position on convex lingual
surface of a tooth.

Minor connectors that join indirect retainers or

auxiliary rests to major connectors.
3 types
Proximal minor connector:

contacts guide planes, called as proximal

plate. The part of proximal plate that
touches ridge crest- Foot of proximal
plate. Located distal to the terminal
abutment and is continuation of the
minor connector contacting the guiding
plane.
To establish a definitive finishing
index stop for acrylic resin base after
processing.

Minor connectors that join indirect retainers or

auxiliary rests to major connectors.
Embrasure minor connector:

Arises from the major connector.

Form a right angle with major
connector.
Triangular in cross-section
Designed to lie in the embrasure
between teeth to disguise its bulk
as much as possible.

Surface minor connector:

on lingual
surface of incisors and canines, they connect
lingual rests to major connector.

Metal thickness 1.5mm for base

metal and 2mm for cast gold.

Minor connector that join denture base

to major connector
May be
Of latticework construction
Of mesh construction
Bead ,wire or nail head minor
connectors

Must be strong enough to

anchor the denture base.
Rigid enough to resist
breakage or flexing.
In maxillary arch-distal
extension base-minor
connector tuberosity.
Mandibular distal extension
base-two thirds the length of
edentulous ridge

Open latticework construction

Consists of 2 longitudinal struts of

metal(12-16gauge).
In mandibular arch
one strut buccal
other lingual.

In maxilla one strut is buccal to the

ridge crest
border of major connector is the
second strut.
Smaller struts connect the
two struts and form the
lattice work.

Longitudinal struts over ridge crest are

avoided interfere with artificial teeth
arrangement.
Relief space given for both lattice work and
mesh work minor connectors.
Acrylic denture base will be formed in this
space.
Locking of acrylic resin provides retention of
denture base.
Used for multiple teeth replacements.

Mesh construction
Thin sheet of metal with multiple
small holes that extends over crest
of residual ridge to the buccal,
lingual and posterior limits.
Used for replacement of multiple
teeth.
Major drawback difficult to pack
acrylic resin.
Does not provide a strong
attachment for denture base.

Tissue stops
Integral parts of minor connectors
retention of acrylic resin bases.
Provide stability for frame work during
the stages of transfer and processing.
Prevents distortion of framework during
acrylic resin processing

Fabrication

Removing approximately 2 square mm of

the relief wax used to create space
beneath the lattice work or mesh from the
point where the posterior end of minor
connector crosses the centre of the ridge.
During waxing this little depression is
waxed as a projection of latticework or
mesh.

After casting this projection contacts

the edentulous ridge of the cast and
prevents frame work from being
distorted during acrylic packing.

Bead wire,or Nail head retention

(Minor connector)

Metal denture base

No relief provided.
Attached to outer or superior surface of metal
base.
Retention by projections of metal on this surface.
Projections may be beads, wires or nail heads.
Denture base hygienic because of better soft
tissue response to metal.

Disadvantages
Difficult to adjust metal base.
Cannot be adequately relined.
Weakest attachment of 3 types.

Should be used on tooth-supported,well healed ridges

when interarch space is limited.

Attachment to major connector

Acrylic resin minor connector must be
joined to major connector with sufficient
bulk to avoid fracture.
Must join in a smooth, even joint.
Irregularity b/w surface irritates tongue or
mucosa of the ridge.
Acrylic resin butt joint must be made on
both internal and external surfaces of the
major connector.

For metal base minor connector

single butt joint .
Butt joints finish lines.

Outer aspect external finish line.

Internal or tissue side internal finish
line.

Finish lines
Finishing line junction with
major connector angle not
greater than 90 degree.
Finish line located too far
medially natural contour
of palate altered by
thickness of acrylic resin.

Too far buccally

difficult to create a
natural contour of
acrylic resin on
lingual surface of
artificial teeth.
90 degree butt-type
joint given for
junction of minor
connectors and bartype direct retainers.

Internal finish lines

Formed from relief
waxes used over
edentulous ridge on
master cast.
24-26 gauge thick.
Margins of relief wax
internal finish line.
Ledge created by wax
sharp and define

External finish lines

Sharp and definite and should be
slightly undercut to help lock acrylic
resin securely to major connector.
Angle the finish line forms with major
connector less than 90 degree.

Should extend on to the proximal

surface of teeth adjacent to
edentulous space.
Finish line begins at lingual extent of
rest seat and continues down the
lingual aspect of minor connector on
proximal surface of the tooth.

Minor connector that serve as approach arm for

vertical projection or bar-type clasp.
Only non rigid minor connector.
Supports a direct retainer that engages an
undercut on a tooth from below.
Approaches tooth from gingival margin.
Should be smooth, even and taper from its
origin to its terminus.

Must not cross a soft tissue undercut.

The flexibility of the clasp depends on
taper and length of approach arm.
It extends up to the height of contour on
the abutment tooth.

Thank you