Modifications in removable partial dentures design looking for better aesthetic results

Abstract

Despite the fact that nowadays the use of osseointegrated implants is increasing worldwide nevertheless removable partial dentures with cast metal frameworks is still the most indicated treatment for cases of partial edentulism. However, patients remain reluctant regarding the aesthetic impairment brought by some of the removable partial dentures' components. Therefore we propose to apply to removable partial dentures some of the frictional retention's principles used in fixed prostheses, preparing instead of conventional guiding planes in some abutment teeth, a more wide and extensive platform what we so-called "frictional retentive facets". Accordingly we can afford to provide enough retention to our removable devices without exposing unaesthetic components such as vestibular retentive arms. Five clinical cases will be shown in order to sustain our proposal keeping in mind the need of respecting the right indication.