RPD Frameworks - Mandibular Major Connectors
Posted on 11/01/2011
The major connector is defined as the component that connects the minor connectors from one side of the arch to the other side of the arch. It must be rigid, adaptable to existing anatomic structures and avoid food entrapment. In addition, major connectors must not damage tissue or gingiva during removal and insertion.
There are two types of mandibular major connectors:
1. Lingual Bar
2. Lingual Plate
The lingual bar is the preferred design for the mandibular major connector as it provides adequate rigidity without causing long term plague build up or impeding gingival health. The lingual bar design is not possible if the there is a high floor of the mouth, a lingual tori, or extreme lingual tilt of anterior teeth.
The preferred designs of the mandibular lingual bar include:
- 4mm in height (gingival-occlusal)
- Superior border should be 3 to 4mm below the gingival margin
- If less than a total of 7mm is available in space between the gingival margin and the lower border of the bar, a lingual plate should be used. Measurement can be performed by using a perio-probe measuring from the floor of the mouth to the gingival margin.
*Portions of this post were adapted from the book: Atlas of Removable Partial denture Design by Dr. Russell J. Stratton and Dr. Frank J. Wiebelt published by Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc. in 1988.
There are two types of mandibular major connectors:
1. Lingual Bar
2. Lingual Plate
The lingual bar is the preferred design for the mandibular major connector as it provides adequate rigidity without causing long term plague build up or impeding gingival health. The lingual bar design is not possible if the there is a high floor of the mouth, a lingual tori, or extreme lingual tilt of anterior teeth.
The preferred designs of the mandibular lingual bar include:
- 4mm in height (gingival-occlusal)
- Superior border should be 3 to 4mm below the gingival margin
- If less than a total of 7mm is available in space between the gingival margin and the lower border of the bar, a lingual plate should be used. Measurement can be performed by using a perio-probe measuring from the floor of the mouth to the gingival margin.
*Portions of this post were adapted from the book: Atlas of Removable Partial denture Design by Dr. Russell J. Stratton and Dr. Frank J. Wiebelt published by Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc. in 1988.
