Reducing stress transmitted to teeth and tissue supports

During the planning of an RPD, the existing clinical conditions must be improved through oral preparation to enhance resistance against functional stresses. Strategies to reduce stress include the following:

A. Reducing stress transmitted to the teeth

1. Occlusal adjustment
2. Splinting of abutment teeth
3. Preparation of guide planes
4. Design and preparation of rest seats

B. Reducing stress transmitted to the edentulous areas

1. Functional impression techniques
2. Maximum coverage of the residual ridges
3. Relining or rebasing of the denture base

C. Balancing the stress distribution between the teeth and edentulous areas

1. Reducing the number of artificial teeth in the posterior region
2. Narrowing the buccolingual width of artificial teeth
3. Preserving cusp inclinations
4. Promoting neuromuscular control
5. Using a rigid major connector
6. Employing direct retainers
7. Incorporating indirect retainers