- Minor connector: connecting link between the major connector and other components of the RPD
- MAXILLA = Must extend up to tuberosity
- MANDIBLE = must extent up to 2/3rd of the edentulous area or cover retromolar pad
- Must be rigid to distribute the stress between the linked components, must not impinge on the mucosa, the mucosal surface must be highly polished
Functions of the minor connector :
- Join the denture parts together
- Transfer functional stresses to abutment teeth through the occlusal rest
- Transfer the effect of the retainer, rests, stabilizing components to the rest of the denture
FOUR TYPES OF MINOR CONNECTORS
- Joins the clasp assembly to major connector
- Broad B-L and Thin M-D = allow easy placement of prosthetic teeth.
- Triangular cross-section
- Lingual embrasure = bulk is not evident
- Joins indirect retainer to major connector
- 90 degrees to the major connector but slightly curved as it will decrease the concentration of stress
- Should always fit into embrasure areas
- Joins denture base to major connector (draw)
- Open lattice
- Mesh or ladder pattern = Require acrylic attachments
- Bead, wires, and nail heads = capture acrylic material
- Class III is completely tooth supported = do not reline procedure
- Class I and II = are distal extension cases = Relining or rebasing procedure, therefore metal parts should not be in direct contact with tissue = Hence, METAL nail heads and beads come in direct contact with underline tissue.
- External and internal finish lines are necessary for class I and Class II situations
- Serves as an approach arm for the vertical projection or bar clasp.