Seminar-8

Direct Retainer

Prepared by:

Dr. Drishti Gaglani

P.G Part I

Guided by:

Dr. Dipti Shah

(Dean,HOD and Professor)

Dr. Kalpesh Vaishnav

(Professor)

Dr. Pankaj Patel

(Professor)

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 CONTENTS

Contents
Introduction
Definition
History
Types of retainers
Extracoronal retainer
Intracoronal retainer
Esthetic retainer
Conclusion
References

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 INTRODUCTION

Introduction

 An essential key to success in practice of removable partial denture prosthodontic is

thorough knowledge and planning of each structure of the prosthesis. A removable
partial denture derives support from abutment teeth through use of rests and from
residual ridge through a well-fitting base. It must be stabilized against horizontal
movement through use of rigid connectors, indirect retainers and other stabilizing
components.

 In addition, removable partial denture should have sufficient retention to resist

reasonable dislodging forces.

 Retention, is that quality inherent in a prosthesis that resists force of gravity, the
adhesiveness of food and forces associated with opening of jaws.

 Direct retention is the retention obtained in a removable partial denture by the use of
attachments or direct retainers (clasps) that resist the displacement or removal of the
partial denture from the abutment teeth in a direction opposite to that of their
insertion.

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 DEFINITION

DEFINITION

 According to GPT-9, a direct retainer is the component of a removable partial

denture used to retain and prevent dislodgement, consisting of a clasp assembly or
precision attachment.
 MC Cracken: A direct retainer is any unit of removable partial prosthesis that
engages on abutment tooth in such a manner as to resist displacement of prosthesis
away from basal tissues.
 Stewart,Rudd: The component that engages on abutment tooth and in so doing
resists dislodging forces applied to a removable partial denture is called direct,
retainer.

 Primary retention for the removable partial denture is accomplished mechanically by

placing retaining elements on the abutment teeth.
 Secondary retention is provided by the intimate relationship of denture base and
major connectors (maxillary) with the underlying tissues.
 However, the role of the denture base in retention of removable partial dentures is
questionable, since a border seal cannot be obtained as readily as it can be with
complete dentures. Therefore, one has to depend on mechanical retentiveness
accomplished by means of a direct retainer.

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 HISTORY

HISTORY
1711-The first recorded description of RPD was given by Heister' when he reported carving a
block of bone to fit within the mouth

1728- ‘Fauchard’ described the construction of a lower RPD using two carved blocks of ivory
joined together by metal labial and lingual connectors.

1746-Retentive clasps were first discussed by “Mouton”.

1810-Gardette described the use of the wrought band clasp.

1817- Delabarre describes "hooks" (clasps) and the use of "little spurs" (occlusal rests) to
prevent irritation around the abutment teeth.

1899- Bonwill recorded his techniques for clasping abutments with individually contoured
gold circumferential clasps that were then soldered to the plate (major connector). Bonwill
also advocated the use of "lugs" (rest seats) so that the prosthesis would be supported by
the abutments.

1913- Roach presented a wrought wire circumferential clasps an improvement over the
wide wrought band clasp.

1914 - bar clasp or "infra bulge" clasp was designed by Henrichsen but the bar clasp did not
gain popularity until Roach promoted his concept in 1930.

During the 1960s and early 1970s, two influential clinicians increased the popularity of the
bar clasp concept started by Henrichsen years before.

Kratochvil promoted the use of the I-bar clasp with a mesial occlusal rest as a means of
reducing the force on a clasped abutment when dealing with distal extension RPDs.

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Krol modified Kratochvil’s concept with his mesial rest proximal plate-I bar (RPI) design

TYPES OF DIRECT RETAINERS

Extracoronal
1. Extracoronal attachments
2. Retentive clasp assemblies
- Occusally approaching (Circumferencial or Akers clasp)
- Gingivally approaching (Bar or Roach’s clasp)

Intracoronal
1. Precision attachments
2. Semiprecision attachments

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS
- Extracoronal direct retainers consist of components that reside entirely outside the
normal clinical contours of abutment teeth.
- They serve to retain and stabilize removable partial dentures when dislodging forces
are encountered.
- Extracoronal direct retainers may be divided into two distinct subcategories:
1. Extracoronal attachments
2. Retentive clasp assemblies

1. Extracoronal attachments
Extracoronal attachments were first introduced by Henry R. Boos in the early 1900s and
were later modified by F. Ewing Roach (1908).

The extracoronal attahement system(arrows) used in this maxillary removable partial

denture (a) provided adequate retention of the prosthesis while elimination the display of
objectionable metallic components(b)
Like their intracoronal counterparts, extracoronal attachments derive their retention from
closely fitting components termed matrices and patrices. Many of these attachments permit
vertical movement of prostheses during occlusal loading. This mechanical accommodation is
intended to minimize the transfer of potentially damaging forces to the abutments. This
concept has led to "stress breaking" or "stress directing" theories of removable partial
denture design.

2. Retentive clasp assembly:

Retentive clasp assemblies represent the most common method for extracoronal direct
retention.
These assemblies probably date to the mid-1700s or early 1800s, but first appeared in the
dental literature with Dr W. G. A. Bonwill's description in 1899.
The retentive element of an individual clasp assembly is a metal clasp arm that displays a
limited amount of flexibility. This flexibility allows the tip of the retentive clasp to pass over

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the greatest diameter of an abutment and contact the surface of the tooth as it converges
apically.
EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

General considerations:
The dental literature contains numerous reports addressing optimal relationships between
tooth contours and prosthesis retention. One of the earliest discussions was provided by J.
H. Prothero.

In 1916, Prothero introduced the "cone theory" of clinical crown anatomy and provided a
conceptual basis for mechanical retention.

He described the shape of crowns of premolar and molar teeth as that of two cones
sharing a common base.
The line at which the two converging cones meet (or more practically, the line at
which occlusally sloping surfaces meet cervically sloping surfaces) is called the height
of contour.
It represents the greatest bulge or diameter of a crown when viewed from specific
angle.
A clasp arm or tip that ends on a cervical cone would be resist movement in the
occlusal direction because to release from the tooth it would be forced to undergo
deformation.
The metal used for clasp construction is resilient and will deform, but will resist
deformation when stressed not to exceed its proportional limit. The degree of
resistance to deformation determines the amount of the clasp’s retention.
Tipping or tilting the cast will cause the height of contour to move accordingly.

To facilitate discussion and application of Prothero's cone theory, M. M. DeVan introduced

the terms SUPRABULGE and INFRABULGE. These terms are extremely useful in discussions
of clasp form, and clasp placement. Hence, their importance should not be overlooked.

According to DeVan's descriptions, the surface of the tooth that is occlusal to the
height of contour is suprabulge, and the surface inclining cervically is infrabulge.

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

Parts of a clasp assembly

1. Rest
2. Body
3. Reciprocal arm
4. Retentive clasp arm
5. Retentive terminal
6. Minor connector
7. Approach arm
8. Retentive terminal portion of vertical projection clasp

Rest:It is the part of the clasp that lies on the occlusal, lingual or incisal surface of a tooth
and resist (tissue ward) movement of the clasp by ensuring that the retentive terminals of
the clasp remain fixed in the desired or planned depth of undercut.

Body of the clasp: It is the part of the clasp that connects the rest and shoulder of the clasp
to the minor connector. It like all components , except the retentive terminal must be rigid
and must lie above the height of contour.

Shoulder: It is the part of the clasp that connects the body to the clasp terminals. The
shoulder must lie above the height of contour and provide some stabilization against
horizontal displacement of the prosthesis.

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Reciprocal arm: A rigid clasp arm placed above the height of contour on the side of the
tooth, opposing the retentive clasp arm.
EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

 One of its purposes is to resist the tipping force generated by the retentive
terminals as it passes over the height of contour when partial denture is inserted
into or withdrawn from the mouth
 As the retentive terminal passes over the greatest bulge of the tooth, the metal
must deform. This deformation generates a positive lateral force against the
tooth. If the tooth is not supported against this destructive lateral force, damage
to supporting periodontal ligament and bone could occur.
 The position of the reciprocal arm in relation to the retentive arm is critical.
 It must be designed to contact the tooth before the retentive clasp does and to
remain in contact while the retentive terminal passes the height of contour.
 This requires the surface of the abutment tooth on which reciprocal arm is
placed to be as parallel as possible to the path the prosthesis takes as it is
inserted into or withdrawn from the mouth.
 The enamel surface is usually contoured to produce this desired result.
 As an additional function the reciprocal arm stabilizes the partial denture against
lateral movement.
 Also because it lies on supra-bulge, it contributes somewhat to the vertical
support of the prosthesis.

Retentive clasp arm: It is the part of the clasp comprising the shoulder which is not flexible
and is located above the height of the contour and the retentive terminals.

Retentive terminal: It is the terminal end(distal third of clasp arm) of the retentive clasp
arm. It is the only component of the removable partial denture that lies on the tooth surface
cervical to the height of the contour. It possesses a certain degree of flexibility and offers
the property of direct retention.

Minor connector: It is the part of the clasp that joins the body of the clasp to the remainder
of the framework. It must always be rigid.

Approach arm: It is a component of the bar clasp. It is a minor connector that projects from
the framework, runs along the mucosa and turns to cross the gingival margin of the
abutment tooth; to approach the undercut from a gingival direction.

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

Requirements of clasp design

Clasps must be designed so that they satisfy the following six basic requirements:
 Retention
 Support
 Stability
 Reciprocation
 Encirclement
 Passivity

Retention
The function of retentive clasp arm is providing retention to the prosthesis against
dislodging forces.
The retentive clasp is divided into three parts, each with its own functional requirements.
 The terminal third is flexible and engages the undercut area
 The middle third has a limited degree of flexibility and may engage a
minimal amount of undercut
 The proximal third or shoulder is rigid and must be positioned above the
height of contour.

The amount of retention that a clasp arm provides depends on flexibility of clasp arm, the
depth that the retentive terminal extends into the undercut and the amount of clasp arm
that extends below the height of contour.
The amount of retention used should always be the minimum necessary to resist reasonable
dislodging forces. A rigid clasp flexing over the greatest bulge of a tooth to enter a deep
undercut will apply harmful lateral stresses against the abutment teeth.

The retentive undercut has three dimensions. The buccolingual depth of the undercut may
be measured by an undercut gauge and expressed in thousands of an inch. It is measured on
a line dropped cervically from the height of contour. The distance between the height of
contour and a give buccolingual measurement depends on the angle formed by the infra-

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

bulge and this vertical line. The less sharp this angle the greater distance needed between
the height of contour and the retentive terminal to achieve the same amount of retention.

The clasp flexibility also affects its placement

Most clasps made of cast chrome metal are placed in undercuts of 0.010 inch. Cast
clasp of gold are generally designed for 0.015 inch undercuts and casts of wrought
alloy are designed for a maximum 0.020 inch undercut.
Another dimension of the retentive undercut is the distance between the survey line and
the tip of retentive clasp which affects the clasp arm length , which in turn influences the
flexibility of the clasp. In actual clasp placement this dimension is not considered.
The third dimension of the undercut is the mesiodistal length of clasp arm below the height
of contour. The longer this measurement, the more flexible the clasp will be and more
important is the buccolingual dimension of the retentive undercut.
The most variable factor in determining retention for a removable partial denture is clasp
flexibility.

Flexibility is determined by the

 Length of the clasp
 The diameter of the clasp arm
 Its taper and cross-sectional form
 The material from which the clasp is made

The greater the length of the clasp arm the greater will be its flexibility because flexure is
directly proportional to the cube of the length.
By doubling the length of clasp arm its flexibility is increased five times. By increasing the
clasp flexibility, the magnitude of horizontal stress against an abutment tooth can be
reduced. However, flexibility should not be so great that the claps ability to provide
retention is lost.

Flexibility is inversely proportional to the diameter of the clasp arm.

A uniform taper in both thickness and width is essential for both the approach arm of a bar
clasp and retentive arm of a cast clasp. A clasp should be half as thick at the tip as at the
origin.

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The cross-sectional form also affect flexibility. A round clasp has greater flexibility than a
half round clasp with the same diameter. It also has the ability to flex in all spatial planes,
whereas a half round clasp normally flexes in only a single plane.

The material of the clasp is also important. Chrome alloys have a higher modulus of
elasticity than gold alloys and are less flexible. Therefore, the smaller cross sectional form of
the clasp and less depth of retentive undercut must be used when chrome alloy is the metal
selected for the frame work of the partial denture.
Because of the internal structure of wrought wire, it has greater ability to flex than is
permitted by crystalline structure of cast alloy. To obtained equal retention therefore a
greater depth of undercut is required for a wrought wire clasp than for a cast clasp.

Support
Support is the quality of a clasp assembly that resists displacement of a prosthesis in an
apical direction.
The removable partial denture component that provides the greatest resistance to apical
displacement is the rest.
Other elements that contact the abutment occlusal to the height of contour (eg. a reciprocal
element or shoulder of retentive clasp) also may contribute to the support function.
Rest seats are primarily located on the occlusal surfaces of premolars and molars, the
cingula of maxillary canines, or the incisal edges of mandibular canines and incisors.Their
importance with regard to the clinical success of removable partial dentures was
emphasized by Dr W. G. A. Bonwill as early as 1899.
A properly prepared rest seat and corresponding rest serve to
 Resist displacement of the prosthesis toward the supporting teeth and soft
tissues, thereby ensuring that the clasp assembly maintains its intended
relation to the abutment
 Transmit functional forces parallel to the long axes of the abutments. These
factors are critical to the health and longevity of abutments .
EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

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Stability
Stability is the quality of a clasp assembly that resists displacement of a prosthesis in a
horizontal direction.

All framework components that are rigid and contact vertically oriented hard and soft
tissues may contribute to the stability of a prosthesis.
Within an individual clasp assembly, the greatest contributions to stability come from the
reciprocal element, the shoulder(s) of a cast circumferential retentive clasp, and vertically
oriented minor connectors.

Reciprocation
Reciprocation is the quality of a clasp assembly that counteracts lateral displacement of an
abutment when the retentive clasp terminus passes over the height of contour.
As previously noted, the retentive clasp must flex to pass over the height of contour. This
results in the application of lateral forces to the abutment. To negate these forces, a clasp
assembly must include a rigid component that resists lateral movement of the affected
tooth. This component is known as a reciprocal element.
Reciprocal element may be a cast clasp, lingual plating, or a combination of mesial and distal
minor connectors.

To optimize reciprocation, the axial surface of an abutment should be prepared parallel to

the path of insertion and removal. Furthermore, the reciprocal element should contact the
abutment at the junction of the gingival and middle thirds of the crown contours.
This permits simultaneous contact of the retentive terminus and the reciprocal element
during insertion and removal of the prosthesis.

The rigid, nontapered, reciprocal clasp arm must be positioned

above height of contour. Its ideal position is at junction of
gingival and middle third of abutment tooth.

EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

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Encirclement
Encirclement is the characteristic of a clasp assembly that prevents movement of an
abutment away from the associated clasp assembly.

Each clasp assembly must be designed to provide direct contact over at least 180 degrees of
the tooth's circumference.
This contact provides encirclement and prevents movement of the abutment away from the
clasp assembly.Inadequate encirclement may permit movement or "escape" of the
abutment tooth from the confines of the clasp assembly during functional movement of the
prosthesis.

Passivity
Passivity is the quality of a clasp assembly that prevents the transmission of adverse forces
to the associated abutment when the prosthesis is completely seated.
The retentive clasp arm should be passive until a dislodging force is applied to the partial
denture.
This means that it should exert no pressure against the tooth until it is activated either by
movement of the prosthesis in function, or in being removed from the mouth.
A clasp so designed will permit a slight degree of movement of the base without
transmitting any appreciable amount of stress to the abutment tooth.

A clasp must be completely seated on a tooth to be completely passive.

If clasp designed to reach a retentive undercut of 0.010 inch can’t reach
that depth, it will exert constant force on tooth. Overtime this can
produce pain or tooth movement.

Location of retentive terminals

In circumferential and bar retentive clasps the retentive terminal is located at the distal line
angle of the tooth.

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There is another category of clasps, used in special design concepts, that locates the
retentive terminal near the centre of the facial or infrequently the lingual, surface of the
tooth.
The retentive terminal is normally positioned at the mesiofacial or distofacial line angle. The
facial or buccal positioning is preferred over the use of the lingual surface. Most mandibular
premolars have a decided lingual axial inclination and as a result height of contour is located
near the occlusal surface. Therefore a lingual retentive area were selected, the clasp would
have insuffient length to provide the flexibility needed.
Maxillary premolars rarely demonstrate a lingual undercut because of normal buccal
inclination of these teeth, so lingual retention cannot be considered.
Molar teeth on the other hand often exhibit undercut on either or both the facial or lingual
surfaces. The mesiodistal dimension of this teeth is also great enough to permit a clasp of
sufficient length to provide the required flexibility to engage a retentive undercut. Therefore
on molar teeth either buccal or lingual retention may be used depending in the most
desirable or available undercut.
As a general rule if buccal retention is selected for used on one side of arch it should be
opposed by buccal retention on the opposite of the arch. In the same manner if lingual
retention is used on one side of the arch it also should be opposed by lingual retention on
opposite site.

Comparison of retentive qualities of Circumferential and Bar clasp

The bar clasp approaches the undercut from below the greatest bulge of tooth and to resist
dislodgment the clasp pushes toward the occlusal surface of abutment tooth. The
circumferential clasp on other hand engage the retentive undercut from above the height of
contour. It pulls toward the occlusal surface from the undercut to resist displacement.
The bar clasp is easier to seat on the tooth and more difficult to remove then the
circumferential clasp. Therefore, if all factors (for example length of clasp arm, flexibility of
clasp arm, depth of undercut) are the same, the bar clasp is more retentive than
circumferential clasp. This may be an important consideration when a partial denture is
designed.

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

CLASP DESIGNS
The basic clasp designs are of circumferential and bar types and include the following:
I. Circumferential clasps/ Occlusally approaching
1. Circlet clasp.
2. Reverse or reverse approach circlet clasp
3. Embrasure clasp.
4. Ring clasp.
5. Reverse action / hair pin clasp.
6. Multiple clasp.
7. Half-and-half clasp.
8. Combination clasp.
9. Onlay clasp.
II. Bar/Roach clasps / Gingivally approaching clasps.
1. T clasp
2. Modified T clasp
3. I clasp
4. Y clasp

CIRCUMFERENTIAL CLASP:

The cast circumferential clasp design was introduced by Dr. N. B. Nesbitt in 1916.
The clasp is remarkable for its simplicity and ease of construction.
It is the design of choice for tooth-supported removable partial dentures because of its
excellent support, bracing, and retentive properties.

Design rules for cast circumferential clasp:

 A cast circumferential clasp should originate from a portion of the framework that
lies above the height of contour. The retentive arm should extend cervically and
circumferentially in a gently arcing manner. The terminal third of the retentive clasp
should pass over the height of contour and enter the infrabulge portion of the
abutment. It is important to note that only the apical border of the retentive clasp
terminus should engage the desired undercut.
 The retentive terminus should be directed occlusally, never toward the gingiva. The
long, curved clasp arm that results from this contour permits improved flexibility.
 A cast circumferential clasp arm should terminate at the mesial line angle or distal
line angle of the abutment, never at the midfacial or midlingual surfaces.
 The retentive arm should be positioned as far apically on the abutment as is
practical. The clasp arm should never violate the prescribed relationship to height of
contour or impinge upon the free gingival margin. Proper placement of the retentive
arm provides significant advantages with regard to mechanics and esthetics.

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS
 When designing the metal framework for an extension base removable partial
denture, special consideration must be given to potentially detrimental forces
associated with cast circumferential clasps. A cast circumferential clasp should not
be used to engage (a) the mesiofacial surface of an abutment adjacent to a posterior
edentulous space or (b) the distofacial surface of an abutment adjacent to an
extensive anterior edentulous space. The biomechanical difficulties produced by
such arrangements often lead to premature loss of abutments

Simple circlet clasp:

It is one of the most commonly used clasps with all tooth-supported partial dentures
because of its retentive and stabilizing ability. The basic design consists of a buccal retentive
arm and a lingual reciprocal arm originating from a common body.

Indicated in medium survey line.

Design
 It consists of an occlusal rest in the distal fossa of an abutment tooth adjacent to the
edentulous space. The terminal third of the retentive arm engages a mesiobuccal
undercut and the reciprocal arm is positioned above the survey line on the lingual
surface.
Advantages
 The rigid reciprocal arm and the flexible retentive arm are designed to function as a
unit so that the reciprocal arm will centralize any forces generated by the retentive
arm.
 The forces generated by the terminal third of the retentive arm are minor and well
within the physiological limits of the abutment tooth.
Disadvantages
 When an occlusal load is directed tissueward, the distal extension base is displaced
towards the mucosa, causing a fulcrum of rotation about the occlusal rest.
 The retentive arm engaging the mesial undercut will move upward, generating a
distolingual force on the abutment tooth.
 The clasp tends to increase the circumference of the crown which interferes with the
normal food flow pattern and deprives the gingival tissue of needed physiologic
stimulation. In the anterior part of the mouth it is not always acceptable from an
aesthetic stand point.
 The simple circlet clasps also cover more tooth surface than the Bar clasps and can
be conductive to carries.

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 EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS
 The clasp can be adjusted in buccolingual direction but not in an occluso gingival
direction (the more frequently needed adjustment).

Reverse approach circlet clasp:

It is most commonly used on the mandibular bicuspids and the retentive terminal engages
the distobuccal undercut.
A more expedient approach to this type of undercut is normally through the use of Bar clasp
that approaches the abutment tooth across the mucosa and turns upward to engage the
undercut adjacent to the edentulous area.
If however the mucosa has an undercut area caused by buccoversion of the abutment tooth
or in an undercut area in the ridge itself than the Bar clasp is contraindicated and the
reverse circulate is the clasp of choice.
In a distal extension edentulous ridge partial denture the reverse approach circulate clasp
help to control stresses transmitted to the terminal abutment tooth on a edentulous side.
As the denture based is depressed under function, a retentive clasp tip rotate gingivally to
enter greater amount of undercut and reduced the torsional stresses transmitted to the
abutment tooth.
When dislodging forces in the form of sticky food or gravity tend to unseat the prosthesis,
the retentive tip engages the undercut and the denture is retained.

Design
 It consists of a mesial occlusal rest, a horizontal reciprocal arm, and a retentive arm
engaging the distobuccal undercut adjacent to the edentulous area.
Advantages
 When an occlusal load is applied to the base, the retentive terminal disengages the
tooth and the mesial occlusal rest prevents the distolingual forces on the abutment
tooth.
Disadvantages
 The greatest problem encounter with this clasp is obtaining sufficient occlusal
clearance so that the clasp has the necessary thickness to maintain strength. The
clasp must travel on the marginal ridges in prepared rest seats, of adjacent teeth to
reach the retentive undercut on the buccal surface of abutment tooth. If opposing

EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

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 occlusion is tight, it is often difficult to obtained adequate clearance to place the rest
and clasp without removing a prohibiting amount of tooth structure on the
abutment tooth.
 As might be expected, the lack of a rest adjacent to an edentulous space may allow
the prosthesis to damage the associated soft tissues. The marginal gingiva also may
be traumatized if food particles are forced between the proximal plate and the
surface of the abutment. Food impaction may be eliminated by incorporating a
disco-occlusal rest into the design. Unfortunately, addition of this rest will eliminate
the releasing action of the retentive clasp terminus as the prosthesis moves during
function.
 Because a reverse circlet clasp is most commonly positioned at the mesio-occlusal
surface of an abutment and crosses the facial surface from mesial to distal, it is a
poor choice from an esthetic viewpoint. As a result, the reverse circlet clasp design is
not the clasp of choice for canine and premolar abutments.
 The rigid horizontal reciprocal arm moves in a gingival direction in response to an
occlusal load and may cause mesiolateral forces to act on the tooth. The gingiva
mucosa may not be well protected because of the mesial occlusal rest resulting in
food traps or inadequate stimulation of gingiva. It may be esthetically compromised
as it has a mesial approach.

Embrasure clasp:
Embrasure clasp (Bonwill clasp) on a maxillary premolar and molar
These clasps are used mainly in the fabrication of unmodified Class II or Class III partial
denture situation; when there are no edentulous spaces available on the opposite side of
the arch to aid in clasping. It should be applied only when the teeth are sound and retentive
areas are available or when multiple restorations are justified.

Design
 The embrasure clasp should have double occlusal rests, two retentive clasp arms and
the two reciprocal clasp arms either bilaterally or diagonally opposed.
 The double occlusal rests prevent interproximal wedging by the prosthesis, which
could cause separation of the abutment tooth and result in food impaction and clasp
displacement. In addition to providing support, occlusal rests also serve to shunt
food away from the contact area. Therefore the embrasure clasp should be used
with double occlusal rests, even when definite proximal shoulders can be
established.
EXTRACORONAL RETAINERS

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Disadvantages
 Sufficient space must be provided between the abutment teeth in their occlusal third
to make room for the common body of the clasp. This involves more of tooth
reduction, which increases caries susceptibility, and risk of encroachment of the
pulp.
 Therefore abutment protection with inlays or crowns are performed. If unprotected
abutments are used, some amount of tooth modification is possible, but not to the
fullest required extent resulting in inadequate interproximal bulk with a high
percentage of fracture of the clasp in the embrasure area.

Ring clasp
It is that form of a circumferential clasp that encircles nearly all of the tooth from its point of
origin. It is usually used when a proximal undercut cannot be approached by any other
means.
The ring type of clasp should always be used with a supporting strut on the non-retentive
side, with or without an auxiliary occlusal rest on the opposite marginal ridge. Reciprocation
is achieved with this rigid portion of the clasp lying between the supporting strut and the
principal occlusal rest.
The ring clasp permits engagement of this undercut through encirclement of the tooth. In
most instances, the clasp originates from a mesial rest. The clasp arm then traverses the
facial and distal surfaces of the tooth, remaining occlusal to the height of contour. At the
middle of the lingual surface, the clasp arm passes apical to the height of contour and
engages a measured undercut at the mesiolingual line angle.
Because of the length of the clasp arm, additional support must be available to ensure its
rigidity. This support may be provided by an auxiliary bracing arm located at the facial
aspect of the tooth. The bracing arm usually projects from the minor connector used to
retain the acrylic resin denture base. The bracing arm runs horizontally across the mucosa
apical to the abutment tooth and then turns occlusally to cross the free gingival margin and
join the clasp arm at its midfacial aspect. Without this bracing element, the clasp assembly
cannot.
If desired, an additional rest may be placed on the disco-occlusal surface. This rest may
provide additional support for the prosthesis and may improve the mechanical
characteristics of the clasp assembly.
When using a ring clasp, the practitioner must cover an extensive amount of tooth
structure. As a result, oral hygiene becomes more complicated and the likelihood of
demineralization is increased.In addition, the ring clasp design significantly alters the
functional contours of the abutment and may interfere with the elimination of food from
the occlusal table. This alteration may result in insufficient stimulation of the associated soft
tissues and adversely impact gingival health. From a structural standpoint, the ring clasp is
susceptible to distortion and fracture. Correction of these problems is extremely difficult.

21 DIRECT RETAINER
Advantages
 Provides adequate encirclement of more than 180 degrees of the greatest
circumference of the tooth. It provides excellent retention with adequate flexibility
due to increased length of clasp arm. When the tooth is mesially inclined it restores
the occlusal surface by its anatomy and thereby uprights the tooth decreasing
unfavourable stress to the abutment. It provides vertical support and prevents
tissueward movement. The auxiliary distal rest prevent further mesial drift of the
tooth.
Indications
 It is used to engage a mesiobuccal undercut for upper molars since they are buccally
inclined.
 It is used to engage the mesiolingual undercut for lower molar since they are
lingually inclined.
 It is used mainly when the proximal undercut cannot be approached directly from
the occlusal rest area, and / or tissue undercuts prevent a gingival approach of the
clasp.
 In cases where diagonal survey line is present.
 A ring clasp is most often indicated on a tipped mandibular molar . When the loss of
mandibular teeth results in the absence of mesial proximal contact for a remaining
molar, that molar tends to tip in a mesiolingual direction. At this inclination, the only
available undercut is typically located at the mesiolingual line angle.

Contraindication
 A ring clasp should not be considered when limited vestibular depth precludes
placement of the auxiliary bracing arm. This clasp design is also contraindicated
when the bracing arm must project across a soft tissue undercut area. As a general
rule, the ring clasp should not be considered the clasp of choice when an alternative

Reverse action / Hairpin clasp/Fishhook:

When a proximal undercut must be used on a posterior abutment and when tissue
undercuts, tilted teeth, or high tissue attachments prevent the use of a bar clasp arm, the
reverse action clasp is indicated.
Also indicated in diagonal type of survey line.

22 DIRECT RETAINER
Design
 The retentive arm of the clasp makes a hairpin turn to engage on undercut below the
point of origin. The upper part of the arm of this clasp is considered a minor
connector, giving rise to the tapered lower part of the arm. Therefore only the lower
part of the arm should be flexible; with the retentive portion beginning beyond the
turn, only the lower part of the arm should flex over the height of contour to engage
a retentive undercut. The bend that connects the upper and lower parts of the arm
should be rounded to prevent strain accumulation and fracture of the arm at the
bend.
Disadvantages
 The clasp covers considerable tooth surface and may trap debris.
 Its occlusal origin may increase the functional load on the tooth.

 It has limited flexibility and is unesthetic for use on an anterior abutment.

Multiple clasp:
This type of clasp is simply two opposing circumferential clasps joined at the terminal end of
the two reciprocal arms.
This clasp design is primary indicated when the principal abutment tooth is periodontally
compromised and stresses originating from prosthesis retention can be favourably
distributed between multiple abutment teeth.

Uses
 In Kennedy Class III situations when additional retention is required.
Disadvantages
 Two embrasure approaches are necessary rather than a single common embrasure
for both clasps. It involves more of tooth modifications.
EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

23 DIRECT RETAINER
Half and half clasp:
This clasp consists of a circumferential retention arm arising from one direction and a
reciprocal arm arising from another minor connector
This design provides retention, a principle that should be applied only to a unilateral
denture design.
The buccal arm provides for bracing only.
The lingual arm utilizes an undercut adjacent to the edentulous space for retention.

Indication:
 Lingually inclined premolars where lingual undercut are close to the edentulous
space.
Contra indication:
 Buccally inclined premolars – If it is used for distal extension RPD a distal rest should
be placed. Mesial rest also can be used in conjunction with the distal rest.

Combination clasp:
This type of clasp consists of a wrought wire retentive clasp arm and a cast reciprocal clasp
arm. The retentive arm is usually occlusally approaching, but it may also be used from a
gingivally approaching direction.
Uses:
 It is used on abutment tooth adjacent to a distal extension base where only a
mesiogingival undercut exists on the abutment or where a large tissue undercut
contraindicates a bar type retainer.
 When the undercut is on the side of the abutment away from the extension base,
the tapered wrought wire retentive arm offers greater flexibility than does the cast
clasp arm and therefore better dissipates functional stresses. For this reason the
combination clasp is preferred
 Cases where high survey line is present.
Advantages:
 Flexibility on account of fibrous grain structure of the wrought wire retentive arm.
 Adjustability: It can be adjusted later to increase or decrease the retention without
danger of breakage.

EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

24 DIRECT RETAINER
  The improved flexibility of a wrought-wire retentive clasp also permits its placement
into a slightly greater undercut. Consequently, a wrought-wire retentive arm can
frequently be located in the apical third of the clinical crown, thereby producing a
more esthetic result.
 As a result, a wrought-wire retentive clasp is often used on maxillary canine and
premolar abutments. Because of its cross - sectional geometry , wrought wire makes
a very fine, linear contact with the surface of the abutment. Therefore, tooth
coverage is markedly decreased. This minimal surface contact makes its use in
caries-prone individuals somewhat more beneficial.
 Esthetic appearance since it is used in smaller diameters of round cross-section. The
wrought structure enables smaller diameters without danger of fracture.
 Since it is round, light is reflected such that metal is displayed less than with the
broader surfaces of cast clasp.
 A minimum of tooth surface is covered because of its line contact with the tooth,
rather than a surface contact of a cast clasp arm.
 Fatigue failures in service are less likely to occur with the tapered wrought wire
retentive arm.
Disadvantages:
 It involves extra steps in fabrication, particularly when high fusing chromium alloys
are used.
 It may be distorted by careless handling on the part of the patient.
 Since it is bent by hand, it may be less accurately adapted and therefore provide less
stabilization above the height of contour.
 The patient may be taught to avoid distortion of the wrought wire, by explaining
that, the fingernail should always be applied to its point of origin, where it is held
rigid by the casting, rather than to the flexible terminal end.

Onlay clasp:
This is an extended occlusal rest with buccal and lingual clasp arms. The clasp may originate
from any point on the onlay that will not create occlusal interferences.
Therefore, this type of clasp is used when the occlusal surface of the abutment tooth is
below the occlusal plane. The onlay can be used to restore the lost vertical dimension.
Because of extensive tooth coverage, the onlayclasp should be prescribed only for caries-
resistant patients. If the removable partial denture framework is to be constructed using a
chrome alloy and is opposed by natural tooth structure, the occlusalsurface of the onlay
clasp should be veneered with acrylic resin or gold. Chrome alloys often induce rapid wear
of enamel and dentin surfaces, while acrylic resin and gold display greater compatibility with
natural tooth structure.

EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

25 DIRECT RETAINER
GINGIVALLY APPROACHING CLASP:

The infrabulge clasp design was introduced during the early 1900s, but did not receive
widespread attention until 1930.
At that time, Dr. F. Ewing Roach presented his "bar-type or roach-type clasp and provided
an appropriate rationale for its use.

Design rules:
 The approach arm of an infrabulge clasp must not impinge on the soft tissues
adjacent to the abutment. It is not desirable to provide relief under the approach
arm, but the tissue surface of the approach arm should be smooth and wellpolished.
 The approach arm should cross perpendicular to the free gingival margin. The
sensitive periodontal tissues must be protected from irritation by inducing as little
interference with normal function and contour as possible.
 The approach arm should never be designed to "bridge" an area of soft tissue
undercut since this will produce an increased risk of food entrapment and may result
in irritation of the associated soft tissue.
 To optimize flexibility, the approach arm should be uniformly tapered from its origin
to the clasp terminus.
 The clasp terminus should be positioned as far apically on the abutment as is
practical. Proper placement of the clasp terminus yields a decrease in leverage-
induced stresses resulting from movement of the prosthesis.
 The minor connector that attaches the occlusal rest to the framework should be rigid
and should contribute to the overall bracing and stabilization characteristics of the
prosthesis.

T- clasp design:
The T-clasp derives its name from the shape created where the retentive clasp arm joins the
vertical aspect of the approach arm.

26 DIRECT RETAINER
 EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

Indication:
 This clasp design is often used in Kennedy Class I or Class II partially edentulous
situations when an undercut is located adjacent to the edentulous area.
 Cases where diagonal survey line is present.
Design:
 The approach arm typically originates from components located in the edentulous
area and projects horizontally across the soft tissues.
 The approach arm then turns vertically to cross the free gingival margin at 90
degrees and contact the abutment at the height of contour.
 From this point, two horizontal projections arise. One projection extends toward the
edentulous area.
 This projection passes over the height of contour and enters a 0.010-inch undercut.
 The second projection extends in the opposite direction and remains occlusal/incisal
to the height of contour.
 This projection improves bracing and stabilization provided by the clasp assembly.
Both projections display a gentle curvature and point slightly toward the occlusal
plane.
Contraindication:
 T-clasp should never be used in a Kennedy Class I or Class II partially edentulous
application if the only available undercut is located on the mesiofacial aspect of the
most posterior abutment.
 It should not use if the approach arm must cross over an area of severe soft tissue
undercut.
 When the height of contour is located near the occlusal surface.
Advantages:
 Esthetically superior to a suprabulge design
 Flexibility is more than the suprabulge clasp

Modified T-clasp design:

The modified T-clasp is essentially a T-clasp that lacks the nonretentive, horizontal
projection.

EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

27 DIRECT RETAINER
Design:
 As noted in the previous section, the approach arm originates from minor connector
components located within the edentulous area.
 The approach arm then projects horizontally across the soft tissues adjacent to the
abutment.
 The approach arm turns vertically to cross the gingival margin at 90 degrees and
contacts the abutment at the height of contour.
 At this point, the clasp turns abruptly toward the prescribed undercut. The retentive
component of the clasp then passes apical to the height of contour and engages the
specified undercut.
 The retentive projection is gently curved and should point slightly toward the
occlusal plane.
Indication:
 Kennedy Class I and Class II applications when retentive undercuts are located
adjacent to the edentulous area(s).
Advantage:
 More esthetic than T-clasp, so used in canines and premolars.

Y-clasp:
Y- clasp is equivalent to a T-clasp, formed when the approach arm terminates in the cervical
third of the abutment, while the mesial and distal projections are positioned near the
occlusal/incisal surface.
As might be expected, the mechanics of a Y-clasp are similar to those of a T-clasp.
On occasion, careful recontouring of the abutment surface will allow the Y-clasp to be
converted to a standard T-clasp.
This often provides an improved esthetic result.

I-clasp design:
As with T- and Y-clasps, the I-clasp or I-bar derives its name from its shape.

EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

28 DIRECT RETAINER
Design:
 The approach arm typically originates from framework components in the
edentulous area and projects horizontally across the soft tissues adjacent to the
abutment.
 A gradual turn allows the approach arm to assume a vertical orientation and cross
perpendicular to the free gingival margin.
 The clasp arm contacts the abutment surface over an area that extends from the
measured undercut to the height of contour.
 Typically, the contact area between the clasp and the abutment is 2.0 to 3.0 mm in
height and 1.5 to 2.0 mm in width.
 The approach arm has a half round, cross-sectional geometry and is characterized by
a gradual and uniform taper throughout its length.
 I-clasp design is used in conjunction with a mesial rest.

RPI SYSTEM (REST, PROXIMAL PLATE, I-BAR)

A Review of RPI Concept
The mesial rest, guide plane and I-bar clasp design is a particularly interesting
development of the gingivally approaching clasp.
Kratochvil in 1963 developed the early clasp assembly which consisted of three
separate units connected to each other only through the framework. They were the mesial
occlusal rest, a distal guide plane and an I-bar retainer. He preferred a full length guide
plane that is subsequently relieved in the mouth to prevent torque or binding.

His purposes were:

1.Elimination of the V-shaped food trap distal to the tooth.
2.A highly polished metal contact with the marginal gingiva, rather than resin
3.Intimate metal-to-tooth contact to minimize food impaction.

This design had certain basic disadvantages:

1)Physiologic relief was required to prevent impingement of gingival tissues during function.
2)Since the proximal plate covers a greater surface area of the tooth, the functional forces
are directed in the horizontal direction, thus the tooth is located more than the edentulous
ridge.
EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

29 DIRECT RETAINER
  Demer in 1976 suggested a further modification of design which moves the guide
plane mesiolingally so that the proximal plate contacts at the survey line only. The
problem of denture to tooth contact of the Krol design is eliminated although the V-
shaped space remains.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF RPI CONCEPT

 The mesiobuccal rest with the minor connector is placed into the mesiolingual
embrasure, but not contacting the adjacent tooth.
 A distal guiding plane, extending from the marginal ridge to the junction of the
middle and gingival thirds of the abutment tooth, is prepared to receive a proximal
plate.
 The buccolingual width of the guiding plane is determined by the proximal contour
of the tooth.
 The proximal plate in conjunction with the mesial occlusal rest and minor connector,
provides the stabilizing and reciprocal aspects of the clasp assembly.
 The I-bar contributes to the retentive aspect and should be located in the gingival
third of the buccal or labial surface of the abutment in 0.01 inch undercut.
 The whole arm of the I-bar should be tapered to its terminus, with no more than
2mm of its tip contacting the abutment.
 The approach arm must be located at least 4mm from the gingival margin and even
more if possible.

Advantages:
 Vertical masticatory force on the distal extension base causes the I bar to move
mesiogingivally away from the tooth and the proximal plate to move further into the
undercut of the tooth. Thus, both the I bar and proximal plate disengage the
abutment and, thereby, reduce torquing of the tooth. The mesial minor connector
together with the proximal plate provide the necessary reciprocation, thus
eliminating the need for a lingual arm.
 The I bar is more esthetic in most instances, since it contacts the tooth minimally.
 The R.P.I. clasp contacts the tooth minimally and is advantageously used on caries-
prone patients.
 The I bar, proximal plate, and mesial minor connector provide adequate
encirclement by engaging more than 180 degrees.
 The mesial rest eliminates the potential "pump-handle" effect that a force on the
base would provide with a distal rest.

EXTRACORONAL RETAINER

30 DIRECT RETAINER
OTHER CLASP DESIGN PHILOSOPHIES:
1) RPA claps
The rest-proximal plate-Aker’s clasp was developed and described by Eliasonin 1983.

It consists of a mesial occlusal rest, proximal plate and a circumferential clasp arm, which
arises from the superior portion of the proximal plate and extends around the tooth to
engage the mesial undercut.
To overcome these problems the authors recommends the following:
 Parallel blockout of the distofacial surface below the survey line.
 Placing the superior border of the retentive arm on the survey line from the proximal
plate to the middle of the tooth where it drops down to engage the necessary
undercut for proper penetration.
 Therefore, the rigid portion of the clasp arm contacts the tooth only along the survey
line.
 When an occlusal load is applied to the denture base, the retentive arm can move
into the undercut because of relief under its rigid section and release from the
abutment tooth. This freedom of movement prevents torque.
 Also the Aker’s clasp is easier to grasp for removal of the prosthesis and the
circumferential arm avoids the tissue problems around abutment teeth.

2)RPL Clasp
Ben-Ur in 1988 described the rationale for using an ‘L’ shaped bar clasp direct retainer for
distal extension removable partial dentures.
The ‘L’ shaped bar crosses the gingival margin of the abutment tooth in the shortest
possible line, ascends to the survey line, and engages the distobuccal undercut.
He divided the retentive surface of the abutment tooth into 3 zones according to the clasp
tip movement.
- Region of vertical movement.
- Region of horizontal movement.
- An intermediate zone in which both vertical and horizontal movements take place.

INTRACORONAL RETAINER

31 DIRECT RETAINER
INTRACORONAL RETAINERS
The first intracoronal direct retainer was introduced by Herman E. S. Cayes in 1906.

As its name implies, an intracoronal direct retainer resides within the normal contours of an
abutment and functions to retain and stabilize a removable partial denture.

The retainer consists of two distinct components.

1) MATRIX- metal receptacle gained within the clinical contours of restoration.

2) PATRIX- is attached to the associated removable partial denture.

Intracoronal direct retainers may be subdivided into two categories based on their method
of fabrication and the tolerance of fit between components.
1) If components are fabricated in metal using high-precision manufacturing
techniques, the intracoronal retainers are considered precision attachments.
These attachments usually exhibit long, parallel walls and exceptional surface
adaptation.
2) A second category of intracoronal attachments displays a less intimate fit
between matrix and patrix components. These are termed semiprecision
attachments.

Advantages :
 Elimination of visible retentive and support components.
 Vertical support through a rest seat located more favorably in relation to the
horizontal axis of the abutment tooth.
 It provides horizontal stabilization similar to that of an internal rest.
Disadvantages:
 They require prepared abutments and casting.
 They require somewhat complicated clinical and laboratory procedures.
 INTRACORONAL RETAINER
INTRACORONAL RETAINER

32 DIRECT RETAINER
  They eventually wear, with progressive loss of frictional resistance to denture
removal.
 They are difficult to repair and replace.
 They are effective in proportion to their length and are therefore least effective on
short teeth.
 They are difficult to place completely within the circumference of an abutment tooth
because of the size of the pulp.
 They are considered more costly.
Requirements:
 Occlusogingival length– minimum of 4 mm vertical space is required so that there is
adequate space between plane of occlusion and gingiva.
 Placement of attachments in the incisors can be difficult because or limited
faciolingual width.
 Adequate space between pulp and normal tooth contour is necessary for the
intracoronal component of an internal attachment
Intracoronal Precision Attachment:
Intracoronal attachment were introduced by Dr. Herman ES Chayes.
It comes as two component matrix and patrix. These are often accompanied by paralleling
guide that fits into the dental surveyor as well as the device to activate the attachment after
fabrication.
Matrix (female) is waxed into the crown or bonded into a preparation in the tooth. Patrix
(male) is attached to the framework usually by soldering.
Various intracoronal attachments:

McCollum attachment

 H shaped attachment
 Single adjustment slot
 Retention expanding the adjustment
slot

Stern attachment which has 2

adjustable slots

33 DIRECT RETAINER
 Crismani attachment which may be
rigid/resilient.Retention by frictional
grip

Schatzmann attachment:
Mechanical retention using spring
loaded plunger

Semiprecision attachment:
It utilizes an intracoronal rest seat and resilient lingual arm.
First semi precision attachment was constructed by Gillete in 1923.
According to Louis Blatterfein (1969). In designing of a semiprecision attachment 4 aspects
of rest seat preparation may be taken into consideration:
 Occlusal form,
 Proximal form,
 Gingival floor form,
 Proximal surface placement
Louis blatterfein (1969) : Four aspects of rest seat preparation Occlusal form / outline form
– controls amount of rotation

Circular Dovetail Rectsngle Mortice

Proximal form / side walls – lateral force control

Parallel outline Tapering outline

34 DIRECT RETAINER
 INTRACORONAL RETAINER

Gingival floor form : serves the function of reciprocation

Flat Inclined Channeled

Advantages:-
 Semi precision attachment offers far greater adaptability to a wide variety of
clinical situations compared to prefabricated precision attachments.
 Versatility for many clinical variation
 Variation in tooth size and shapes are most easily accommodated
Disadvantage:-
 Long term wear is more
 Lack of interchangeability of male and female attachment as there is no
standardization of sizing as been in prefabricated parts.
 Repair and replacement of custom attachments are more difficult as
composed to prefabricated parts.

35 DIRECT RETAINER
 ESTHETIC RETAINER

ESTHETIC RETAINER
The various alternatives available for modifying the visibility of direct retainers in the esthetic zone
can be broadly classified as under:

• hidden clasps/internally braced clasps,

• masking of the clasps with resins and composites,

• metal-free clasps

Hidden clasp design

MGR clasp (Mesial groove reciprocation)

It is an esthetic extracoronal retainer for maxillary canines.

Retention is provided by 19 gauges round I-bar and retentive dimple located at distobuccally on the
tooth. Reciprocation is provided by mesial groove or rest and distal proximal plate.

Estheti clasp

The Estheti clasp is recommended for patients with required abutment teeth in the esthetic zone
(incisors and bicuspids). The Estheti clasp design may NOT be indicated for maxillary canines if the
patient is edentulous bilaterally in the posterior.

Advantages • Optimum esthetics, • no attachment maintenance cost. It utilizes the proximal

undercuts and encircles the tooth by 181°.

L-clasp: The design consists of the clasp arm extending from lingual minor connector with an
independent reciprocal rest. The L-clasp has greater rigidity than the C-clasp.

C-clasp: It consists of a modified back-action clasp with rest incorporated in clasp. C-clasp has greater
flexibility than L-clasp

36 DIRECT RETAINER
Saddle lock

The saddle-lock system eliminates facial clasp display while achieving natural esthetics with superior
stability and retention. Saddle lock eliminates facial clasps by using the available mesial/distal
concave surfaces of the abutment teeth for retention instead of the buccal undercuts.

The benefits of saddle lock

• Superior esthetics, without visible clasps,

• improved retention with little or no adjustment,

• easy vertical insertion that protects abutments,

• applicable in most partial denture cases,

• simple preparation procedures for less chair time.

Limitations

• There is no metal horizontal shoe extension,

• the retentive arm is short.

37 DIRECT RETAINER
 ESTHETIC RETAINER

Equipoise RPD system

Proposed by J. J. Goodman, it is an esthetic retentive concept for distal extension situations.

Rests are placed away from edentulous span. Vertical inter-proximal reduction of 1 mm between
abutment and adjacent tooth is done. Optional bucco-lingual retentive groove at mid and gingival
third junction on distal surface of abutment tooth is provided.

The equipoise clasp is a lingual backaction clasp that is fully reciprocated and extremely esthetic with
no facial clasp displays.

This concept works very well on premolar abutment. The occlusal rest provides excellent
reciprocation for the clasp and the clasp tip can engage an undercut in the distobuccal line angle.
Reciprocation is difficult to achieve on anterior natural teeth without extending the framework
through the contact area.

When this clasp is used on a premolar adjacent to a distal extension area, a prominent occlusal rest
seat should be placed on the side of the abutment tooth opposite the edentulous area.

The retentive clasp terminal extends from the mesial and circles around the lingual and distal
surfaces of the tooth and engages the distobuccal undercut.

It is kind to the abutment tooth as it disengages when the partial denture is in function.

Disadvantages

• Lack of reciprocation and retention can be a problem. Goodman advocated removal of 0.5 mm of
tooth structure from adjacent teeth so that rigid metal of the RPD framework can extend into the
area and provides reciprocation.

• The interproximal tooth reduction makes it a caries susceptible preparation.

• Mesial proximal plate may introduce torque.

• Potential loss of proximal space with a noncompliant patient.

• Requires greater surveillance.

• During processing, excess acrylic may be allowed to surround the clasp. When this happens the
clasp is not able to flex into the retentive undercuts.

38 DIRECT RETAINER
 ESTHETIC RETAINER

Masking the direct retainer

A number of techniques that facilitate metal–resin bonding have been reportedly used to mask the
direct retainer with either acrylic or composite. However, the technique has not been refined
primarily because the composite resins are designed for restorative purposes. Therefore, they are
strong but rigid.

The difficulty of using acrylic/composite resin to veneer RPD metals lies in the difference between
their abilities to flex and their coefficient of thermal expansion. Nonnoble metals possess strength
and resist flexure. However, acrylic and composites are subject to greater deformation from physical
and thermal conditions. The composite is brittle past its elastic limit. As a result the abilities of
metals and composites to plastically deform are incompatible. Therefore, the less flexible the clasp,
the more likelihood there is that the bond will endure.

The various methods used to mask the metallic direct retainer are as follows.

Macromechanical retention:

Retentive beads and meshwork have been used to retain facing of either acrylic or composite resin.

Disadvantages

• Bulk that is created by adding the veneer will enlarge the total size of the clasp thus defeating the
purpose of disguising the clasp,

• bonding is unreliable,

• Gap formation and microleakage when used in combination with composites.

Micromechanical retention:

It involves air borne particle abrasion. This helps to improve retention between the alloy and the
resin.

Disadvantages

• Bond strengths obtained after the use of micromechanical systems are insufficient.

Silica coating: This technique is based on adhesion of resin to silane bonding agents. These silanes,
however, they cannot bond directly to metals.

New technique involves coating the metal with silica intermediate layer that bonds to metal and also
supplies the -OH group for silane bonding.

The tribochemical effect of air borne particle coated with silicic acid on the alloy surface renders it
amiable to silane bonding agents.

This coating allows the development of superior bond strengths to electroetching or chemical
etching. Hence, even in the presence of the flexing retentive clasps the bond strengths are significant
to prevent debonding.

39 DIRECT RETAINER
 ESTHETIC RETAINER

METAL-FREE CLASPS

The metal-free materials available now are ideal for flexibility and esthetics thus allowing esthetic
functional care in the true sense.

 Optiflex invisible clasp partials

With the OptiFlex acetyl resin clasps, metal-free, lightweight partial dentures that provide natural
esthetics and a comfortable fit can be designed.

Using the OptiFlex Coating applied to metal clasps, it is possible to give new or existing metal partial
dentures a new esthetic appeal. It is available in 16 tooth-colored shades (matched to the base Vita
Shades).

 Flexite plus cast thermoplastic

Flexite Plus ‘Flexible’ partial dentures eliminate the use of metal, providing patients with a metal
partial denture alternative. It is fabricated from a flexible thermoplastic material that is available in
three tissue shades.

The material is monomer-free, virtually unbreakable, lightweight, and impervious to oral fluids.
Flexite Plus may also be combined with a metal framework to eliminate the display of metal labial
clasps.

 NaturalFlex

Based on acetyl resin technology.

Indications

1. Partial dentures,

2. removable bridges,

3. long-term temporaries,

4. unilateral space maintainers

Available in 20 shades with three pink hues. The tooth or tissue coloured resin clasps though as slim
as those made of metal provide superior strength. They are flexible and light weight. They are also
up to 20 times harder than restorations fabricated from standard acrylic materials.

 Proflex clear wire clasps

Clear wire is an excellent new way to fabricate clear, strong, flexible clasps in minutes.

This new material and technique can be used to make T-bars, I-bars, Roaches, Acers, and most other
types of clasps.

It can also be used to add or repair clasps in an existing partial denture

 Smile-Rite partials

Smile Rite is a high strength acetyl resin-polymer used for making tooth coloured clasps on cobalt–
chrome alloy partial frameworks.

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 ESTHETIC RETAINER

The combination of Smile Rite with a metal frame gives patients the proven long-term reliability of a
cobalt-chrome alloy framework with the durability and esthetics of Smile-Rite tooth coloured clasps.

Existing metal frameworks can be retrofitted with SmileRite clasps for esthetically conscious
patients. It is colour stable and is resistant to staining and plaque buildup.

The high strength of Smile Rite makes it possible to fabricate the entire framework metal free. The
framework can be made from either tissue colour or tooth colour monomer-free Smile-Rite acrylic.

 DUET CLASPS Estheti-flex ‘Duet’

It combines the support of a Vitallium or Titanium cast framework with the comfort of Estheti-Flex
tooth coloured clasp system for the ultimate in function and esthetics.

It is recommended for patients requiring cast rests for support combined with Vita shaded or clear
resin clasps for improved appearance in the esthetic zone.

 Themoflex thermoplastic clasps

Thermoflex is an improved acetal resin system that brings the many benefits of metal-free
restorations without the pitfalls associated with acrylic.

Thermoflex is so flexible that it can flex around the largest tooth, and then use its superior elastic
memory to cling deeper into the undercut for a rigid functional hold.

It is a Hypoallergenic, monomer-free material ideal for patients with allergies or patients that cannot
tolerate a metal partial framework. It is hydrophobic; hence does not absorb water or saliva.

Thermoflex has unsurpassed durability and it bonds well with conventional acrylics, as well as, to
itself, which means it can be repaired, relined or rebased.

It is available in 19 shades, 16 tooth coloured and 3- tissue coloured. The Thermoflex partials are
injection molded using heat and pressure which makes the final product dense.

41 DIRECT RETAINER
 CONCLUSION AND REFERENCES

CONCLUSION
 Direct retention is the retention obtained in a removable partial denture by the use
of attachments or direct retainers (clasps) resist the displacement or removal of the
partial denture from the abutment teeth in a direction opposite to that of their
insertion.
 Function, esthetics and harmony of the dental structures have become one entity.
 To develop an esthetically, technically and functionally adequate restoration, it is
essential to treat and prepare the remaining teeth.
 Provision for retention of a prosthesis in a partially edentulous situation requires a
choice between an extracoronal retainer and an intracoronal retainer.
 The clasp designs should be kept as simple as the situation permit. The less
desirable clasp design should be avoided by changing form of the abutment teeth by
means of full crown restorations to create contours that will compatible with simple
direct retainer design.

REFERENCES
1. Mccracken’s removable partial prosthodontics 12th edition
2. Stewert’s clinical removable partial prosthodontics
3. Preserving natural teeth through the use of clasps ,M. M. Devan,
(JPD 1955,vol 2, number 2:208)
4. Construction techniques for wrought-wire retentive clasp arms as related
to clasp flexibility james s. Brudvik, d.d.s.,and john h. Wormley,
(JPDnovember 1973:769-774)
5. Clasp design for extension-base removable partial dentures Arthur j. Krol, d.d.s. ( JPD
1973,number 4,volume 25:408)
6. Partial dentures by Osborne and Lammie
7. Direct retainers: Esthetic solutions in the smile zone by M. A. Aras, V. Chitre, JIPS
March 2005,Vol 5 issue 1
8. Precision attachment-an overview by Reeta Jain, Swati Aggarwal.
Annals of Prosthodontics & Restorative Dentistry, January-March 2017:3(1):6-9

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