Improving Esthetics of Removable Partial Dentures Using Palatal Retentive Arms

A well-designed removable partial denture can replace the loss of hard and soft tissues, restore masticatory function and maintain arch integrity. It is relatively simple, noninvasive and economical compared to other treatment options. Removable partial denture is therefore a common option among various treatment replacing missing teeth. A removable partial denture replacing anterior missing teeth can improve esthetics and hence the patient's quality of life. However, metal components of a removable partial denture may be visible and affects patient satisfaction. Esthetics of a removable partial denture can often be improved with some modifications to traditional designs. This article reported the use of a cobalt-chromium-based removable partial denture to replace a missing maxillary lateral incisor and molars. Palatal retentive arms were employed as the retentive components on the premolars to avoid the metal component being seen when speaking and smiling. The indications and design of the removable partial dentures with palatal retentive arms are also discussed. Keywords: denture, removable partial denture, esthetics, palatal retentive arm