Removable Partial Denture Design Considerations Where Periodontally Compromised Teeth Exist

Restoration of a periodontally compromised dental arch with a removable partial denture may require one or more design modifications. Multiple rests ensure that adequate vertical support remains in the event primary abutment teeth are lost. An open or closed base can be strategically placed in the maxillary major connector to facilitate the replacement of subsequently lost teeth. The location of finish lines can be modified to provide a smoother resin-to-metal transition when posterior teeth are lost. Wire direct retainers that provide more physiologically acceptable clasping of compromised teeth and that are easily adjusted and added to the prosthesis should be considered.