Minor Connectors Introduction
Minor connector is a connecting link between major connector and other components. It connects various components with major connector and also helps the major connector in distributing stress. Different types of minor connectors are discussed in this chapter.
Table of Contents
Minor Connectors Functions
The primary function is to provide link between the components (of removable partial denture) and major connector. It helps in distribution of masticatory load and stress (in association with major connector).
Minor Connectors Types
There are four types of minor connectors.
Read and Learn More: Preclinical Prosthodontics Notes
These are as follows:
Minor Connector Joining Clasp Assembly to the Major Connector:
This type of minor connector joins the clasp assembly to the major connector. Must be rigid as they support active component of partial dentures (retentive clasp). Located on proximal surfaces of teeth adjacent to edentulous areas.
Minor Connector Joining Indirect Retainer to Major Connector:
Minor connector that joins indirect retainer or auxiliary rests to major connectors generally arises from the major connector. They should form a right angle with major connector but the junction should have gentle curve.
Minor Connector Joining Denture Base to Major Connector:
Lattice Work Construction:
It consists of two longitudinal struts of metal. Struts positioned buccally and lingually to residual ridge. The length of lattice work extends two-thirds of total edentulous span. The horizontal strut placed in between longitudinal struts to join them. This is commonly used with class I and class II partially edentulous condition.
Advantages:
- Used to replace multiple teeth.
- Provide strongest attachment between denture base and major connector.
- Reline of denture is easy.
- More space available for placement of teeth.
Mesh Construction:
It is a metal sheet with small holes. Used when multiple teeth to be replaced. Commonly used in Kennedy’s class I and class II partial edentulous conditions. It requires more pressure to pack acrylic resin. It does not provide strong attachment between mesh and acrylic as holes are smaller. It requires good interarch space.
Nail-head, Wire, or Bead Connector:
It is metallic plate which rest directly on edentulous ridge. Acrylic is attached with beads, wires present on superior surface of this type of connector. This is used to replace one or two teeth. Used in class III condition. Better soft tissue response. Weakest attachment between acrylic and metal. Difficult to reline it.
An Approach Arm of Bar Type Clasp:
This is the only flexible minor connector. This connects terminal of bar clasp with major connector.
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