Alternate framework designs for removable partial dentures.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The removable partial denture is usually less appreciated than the fixed partial denture by both patients and prosthodontists. This negative attitude could be due to problems associated with the wearing of a removable partial denture and concern essentially with comfort, esthetics, masticatory function, occlusal stability, and maintenance of oral hygiene. Such problems could be limited if treatment planning is made carefully, according to simplified and logical principles for framework design, and if oral hygiene and the fit of the dentures are regularly controlled.
PURPOSE: This article reviews the factors associated with the prognosis of treatment with removable partial dentures. Furthermore, the article describes framework design applied in different clinical situations and compares them with more conventional designs. It seems important to consider a framework design that privileges comfort, esthetics, and oral hygiene rather than to follow mechanical rules that are entirely theoretical and have not been confirmed scientifically or clinically.