Overview
This lecture introduces the types of mandibular major connectors used in dentistry, their requirements, indications, and selection criteria for removable partial dentures.
Types of Mandibular Major Connectors
- Major connectors join parts of a removable partial denture on opposite sides of the arch.
- Four main types: lingual bar, lingual plate, double lingual bar (Kennedy bar), and labial bar.
- A fifth type, the sublingual bar, is also mentioned.
Lingual Bar
- Placed on the lingual (tongue) side of the mandibular teeth.
- Requires a minimum of 8 mm space between the floor of the mouth and gingival margin.
- Preferably used when adequate space is present.
Lingual Plate
- Extends onto the lingual aspects of the teeth.
- Used when available space is less than needed for a lingual bar.
- Indicated for periodontally compromised teeth to provide splinting.
Double Lingual Bar (Kennedy Bar)
- Consists of two bars with a space in between.
- Indicated when anterior teeth have diastema (spacing), wide embrasures, or are crowded.
- Useful when a lingual plate is difficult to place due to tooth position.
Labial Bar
- Placed on the labial (lip) side of the mandibular teeth.
- Requires at least 5 mm bar height and 3 mm space from the gingival margin (total 8 mm space).
- Used when anterior teeth have severe lingual inclination or in the presence of a non-operable mandibular tori.
- Indicated if other connectors cannot be used due to anatomical constraints.
Sublingual Bar
- Positioned below the typical lingual bar placement.
- Provides increased rigidity when needed.
Selection Criteria & Indications
- Amount of space, tooth position, periodontal status, and anatomical limitations determine connector choice.
- Lingual plate provides best rigidity among options.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Mandibular Major Connector — Main joining part of a lower denture connecting components on both sides.
- Lingual Bar — Bar on the tongue side requiring significant vertical space.
- Lingual Plate — Plate extending along lingual tooth surfaces for splinting and less space.
- Double Lingual Bar (Kennedy Bar) — Two parallel lingual bars for widely spaced teeth.
- Labial Bar — Bar positioned on the lip side, for lingually inclined or tori-affected teeth.
- Sublingual Bar — Bar placed below the lingual bar for increased rigidity.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review space and anatomical requirements for each connector type.
- Study clinical indications for using each mandibular major connector.