Ring Clasp
Posted on 12/06/2011
The ring clasp assembly is a design whereby the clasp arm encircles the majority of the tooth. Please see the photo* of the design. The ring clasp design is specifically indicated for:
1. Tilted mandibular molar that has a mesial lingual undercut
2. Buccally tilted maxillary molar
The basic elements of the assembly include:
1. Guide Plate
2. Mesial Rest
3. Retentive arm that encircles almost the entire abutment and engages the undercut on the opposite side of the tooth from the point of origin
4. Support strut & auxiliary distal rest - both providing for bracing/reciprocating functions and to maintain form of the retentive arm.
Due to the considerable tooth structure covered by the ring clasp, this clasp should be avoided for patients prone to carries. Additionally, the ring clasp poses aesthetic challenges and is seldom used on premolars or anterior teeth.
*Picture and portions of the text adapted from An Atlas of Removable Partial denture Design by Dr. Russell J. Stratton and Dr. Frank J. Wiebelt published by Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc. in 1988. Page. 60.
1. Tilted mandibular molar that has a mesial lingual undercut
2. Buccally tilted maxillary molar
The basic elements of the assembly include:
1. Guide Plate
2. Mesial Rest
3. Retentive arm that encircles almost the entire abutment and engages the undercut on the opposite side of the tooth from the point of origin
4. Support strut & auxiliary distal rest - both providing for bracing/reciprocating functions and to maintain form of the retentive arm.
Due to the considerable tooth structure covered by the ring clasp, this clasp should be avoided for patients prone to carries. Additionally, the ring clasp poses aesthetic challenges and is seldom used on premolars or anterior teeth.
*Picture and portions of the text adapted from An Atlas of Removable Partial denture Design by Dr. Russell J. Stratton and Dr. Frank J. Wiebelt published by Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc. in 1988. Page. 60.
