Retention Mechanisms in Removable Dental Prostheses

Retention is fundamental to the success of removable dental prostheses, ensuring stability, comfort and patient satisfaction. Mechanically, retention may be achieved through clasps engaging natural undercuts, double-crown or telescopic systems relying on frictional fit, and precision attachments such as studs, bars or clips. Clasps offer simplicity and cost-effectiveness but may induce stress concentrations and aesthetic compromises. Telescopic double crowns consist of a primary coping fixed to an abutment and a removable secondary crown within the denture; their retention derives from controlled taper angles, surface finish and material properties. Precision attachments integrate bespoke male–female components to distribute forces evenly without visible metal. Material innovations—including high-performance polymers such as PEEK and PEKK—combine favourable elastic modulus with wear resistance and biocompatibility, while advances in CAD/CAM manufacture deliver greater accuracy of fit and repeatability. Adhesive retention via mucosal suction and denture base adhesion remains central to complete dentures. Optimising retention forces (typically 2–10 N per abutment) involves balancing frictional engagement against ease of removal, minimising wear and ensuring long-term stability. Clinical factors such as number and distribution of abutments, hygiene protocols and patient dexterity further influence outcomes. Emerging trends embrace digital workflows, surface treatments, magnetic attachments and novel polymers to enhance durability and simplify maintenance. Appropriate selection and integration of retention mechanisms underpin sustainable oral rehabilitation and have broad implications for global oral health delivery.

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Retention Mechanisms in Removable Dental Prostheses publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in retention mechanisms in removable dental prostheses across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Telescopic crown: Double-crown attachment with a primary coping on the abutment and a removable secondary crown that relies on frictional fit for retention.

Retention force: The force required to dislodge a prosthesis from its supporting structures, generally recommended between 2 and 10 newtons per abutment.

Taper angle: The angle of divergence between primary and secondary crowns; a key determinant of frictional engagement and retention level in telescopic systems.

Precision attachment: A mechanical connector (stud, bar, clip) built into a removable partial denture to enhance stability and retention without visible clasps.

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK): A high-performance thermoplastic polymer used for abutment copings and secondary crowns, valued for its elastic modulus, wear resistance and biocompatibility.

References

1. Double‐Crown Prosthesis Retention Using Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK): An In Vitro Study. Journal of Prosthodontics (2022).
2. Clinical performance of tooth implant–supported removable partial dentures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Oral Investigations (2022).
3. Comparison of Retention Forces of Different Fabrication Methods of Co-Cr Crowns: Pre-sintered and Milled, Cast and Electroforming Secondary Crowns with Different Taper Angles. International Journal of Dentistry and Oral Science (2015).