Comparative Study Clarifying the Most Suitable Material to Be Used as Partial Denture Clasps

BACKGROUND: Removable partial denture’s clasp is of particular importance as it affects the denture longevity during the function. The key of successful clasp selection is to select a direct retainer that will control tipping and torquing forces on the abutment teeth, provide retention against reasonable dislodging forces and are compatible with both tooth and tissue contour and the aesthetic desire of the patient. In this consideration, different materials employed for the clasp construction were compared mechanically. AIM: This study aims to compare the most usable esthetic clasps mechanically to clarify the most suitable material to be used as partial denture clasps. METHODS: Evaluation of surface roughness, retention and deformation has been investigated utilising different in-vitro methods. All these techniques provide valuable information regarding the mechanical properties of the materials tested. However, none of the in-vitro techniques can expose the tested materials to conditions similar to that of the oral environment (in-vivo) such as pH value and temperature variations. RESULTS: Most commonly, RPD clasps are fabricated from the same alloy of the metal framework, as cobalt-chromium (CoCr) alloy although it is unaesthetic. Other methods consumed to avoid such esthetic mystery have included coating retainers with tooth-coloured resin or introduction of esthetic materials as Thermoplastic Acetal, Versacryl, and Thermopress. CONCLUSION: It has been concluded that the non-metal Acetal resin retainer reveals superior mechanical properties.