Biomechanical considerations on support, retention and stability in conventional removable partial dentures: a narrative review of the literature

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: the objective was to present biomechanical considerations on support, retention and stability in conventional removable partial dentures, through a narrative review of the literature. METHODOLOGY: In this narrative review of the literature, literature was sought through databases such as Google Scholar, VHL, Scielo, Pubmed and specialized literature on the subject such as books; using the key terms Biomechanics (biomechanical) and Removable Partial Dentures (removable partial dentures). Inclusion criteria were studies that addressed conventional PPR biomechanics, that is, the staple; while the exclusion criteria cover studies that addressed the use of unconventional PPR, such as prosthesis with attachements and PPR with the use of implants. The chronology of the literature was not a selection criterion adopted, due to the scarce approach to the topic in the databases. Literature was searched for in English and Portuguese, and the searches were carried out in the period of June 2020. RESULTS: The BVS, Scielo, Pubmed databases did not present any study with the terms used in the bibliographic search; 04 articles and 01 specialization monograph were selected on Google Scholar published between 1970 and 2017 and 05 books were also selected, as they are the most relevant on removable partial dentures available in the country. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The biomechanical study of the conventional removable partial denture should be conducted based on support, retention and stability; when clinical characteristics are identified that interfere with retention and stability mechanisms, it is necessary to adopt strategies to minimize the movement of the prosthesis. Such strategies are greater covering of the pliable area, mounting up to 1 ° molar, occlusal adjustment with forces directed along the long axis of the artificial teeth, posterior teeth disocclusion in laterality and protrusion; indirect retainers located the furthest from the fulcrum line.