CONTENT * Definition * Functions * Characteristics * Location of major connector * Mandibular major connector a.) lingual bar b.) lingual plate c.) mandibular lingual bar with continuous bar d.) labial bar e.) cingulum bar f.) sublingual bar * Design of mandibular major connector * Maxillary major connector a.) single palatal strap b.) palatal plate type c.) combination of anterior & posterior palatal strap type connector * Design of maxillary major connector
DEFINITION
The major connector is that part of removable partial denture that joins the component parts on one side of the arch to those on the opposite side.” So it is the unit of removable partial denture to which all other parts are directly or indirectly attached.
FUNCTIONS * Join the various parts of a partial denture so that the prosthesis acts as a single unit. * A major connector must be rigid so that the component parts do not function independently from one another. This way, forces applied to one part of RPD are transmitted to other parts & are dissipated by all teeth & tissue contacted, rather than just by the those where the force is applied. * Maxillary major connector for tooth-tissue supported RPDs provide some support, retention & direct or indirect retention.
Characteristics * Made from an alloy compatible with oral tissue. * It is rigid & provide cross arch stability through the principle of broad distribution of stress. * Does not interfere with & is not irritating to the tongue. * Does not impinge on oral tissue when the restoration is placed, removed or rotates in function. * Cover no more tissue than is absolutely necessary. * There should be no trapping of food particles. * Contributes to support of prosthesis.
Location of major connector
Major connector should
References: * Textbook of removable partial prosthodontics by Ernest L. Miller & Joseph E. Grasso * McCracken’s Removable partial prosthodontics (11th edition) * Textbook of prosthodontics by Deepak Nallaswamy