Case analysis of partial denture problems

Summary The specific stress considerations encountered in a partial denture problem are: (1) Vertical stresses a) Displacing thrust b) Dislodging force (2) Horizontal stresses (3) Torsional stresses The procedure of partial denture stress analysis is intended to supplement the biologic diagnostic procedures preparatory to treatment planning. It is an aid in the meticulous step-by-step approach to the exposure of the problems for study. The more accurately the dentist organizes and evaluates the diagnostic considerations, the more precise the treatment plan and denture design will be. Stress analysis is performed in conjunction with the clinical studies, and with the aid of mounted study casts, prior to surveying the casts and planning the partial denture parts. Biologic and technical considerations have been largely excluded from this article to maintain integrity in the presentation of the procedure, for the sake of clarity. It is a correlative procedure for integrating some of the most important stress problems for study. As the technical means become available, we may increase the accuracy of our estimates.