U-Shaped (Horseshoe) Palatal Connector
Posted on 11/15/2011
One final version of the palatal plate is the U-Shaped (horseshoe) palatal connector. This design is specifically indicated when a torus extends to within 6-8mm of the soft/hard palate junction, or in a case where the patient cannot tolerate any posterior palatal coverage. The design is similar to a platal plate, except that the plate does not extend to the posterior region of the palate but creates a concave design with lateral "open ends" extending towards the maxillary tuberosity.
This design is not ideal due to the lack of rigidity of the framework - especially on the open ends. Additionally, as with all palatal plate designs, coverage of the palate can lead to tongue or speech interference.
As a result, it is recommended to use this design only as a last resort. If the torus is more than 8mm from the hard/soft palate junction, an A-P strap is preferred - as it will provide more rigidity and cover less palate.
This design is not ideal due to the lack of rigidity of the framework - especially on the open ends. Additionally, as with all palatal plate designs, coverage of the palate can lead to tongue or speech interference.
As a result, it is recommended to use this design only as a last resort. If the torus is more than 8mm from the hard/soft palate junction, an A-P strap is preferred - as it will provide more rigidity and cover less palate.
