Chapter 5. Major and Minor Connectors

In removable partial dentures, the components that connect the elements on both sides of the dental arch are called major connectors. The components that connects the major connector to the other parts of the prosthesis are referred to as minor connectors.

Connectors must be rigid to ensure that occlusal and lateral forces are transmitted to the abutment teeth and supporting tissues in a reduced and controlled manner. In this way, functional forces are distributed across all supporting teeth, minimizing the load on any single abutment.

Major connectors do not cover tissues that are prone to residual ridge resorption, nor do they rely on gingival tissues for support.