Chapter 8. Treatment Planning
In removable partial denture treatment planning, the preservation of the remaining oral tissues is aimed through a balanced distribution of functional forces affecting the retention and stabilization of the prosthesis, in such a way that the prosthetic components do not hinder oral hygiene maintenance.
In tooth-supported and tooth–tissue-supported prostheses, which derive support from different tissues, forces acting within the oral cavity cause dissimilar patterns of movement; therefore, the planning principles also differ accordingly.
When preparing the metal framework, placing the prosthetic components on the diagnostic casts according to proper planning principles—and following the sequence outlined below—provides significant convenience for both the clinician and the dental technician:
- Determining the Kennedy classification of the case
- Determining the supporting units
- Considering the necessity of guide planes
- Determining the direct retainers
- Determining the indirect retainers
- Selecting the major connector
- Outlining the minor connectors
- Determining the denture base and artificial teeth