Ten patients with kennedy class I classification utilizing OT unilateral extracoronal attachment were randomly divided in two groups using split mouth research design. Group I (without bracing arm) and group II (with a bracing arm on a prepared ledge at the survey line of the abutments). Radiographic evaluation of the abutments was made at time of denture insertion, 6months, 12months, 18 months, and 30 months after denture insertion to measure the bone height changes around the abutments. The results obtained showed a statistically significant difference in bone loss around the abutment teeth between the two groups. In Conclusion patients rehabilitated with OT unilateral extracoronal attachment with a bracing arm showed less vertical bone loss around the abutments KEYWARDS: Splinted abutments, bracing arm, unilateral distal extension, attachments.
Lack of support, stability and retention are the main problems of Kennedy class I cases restored with conventional RPD due to lack of distal abutment. There is lever action resulting from difference in resiliency between the mucoperiosteum and the periodontal ligament, this difference lead to destructive forces on abutments and supporting structures. A rotational movement usually occurs around the fulcrum of the terminal abutments when Functional occlusal load is applied on distal-extension removable partial denture. These phenomenons not only decrease the denture function and cause the patient's discomfort, but also traumatize the supporting tissues of the dentures. (1,2). Lack of stability, minimal retention, periodontally compromised abutment teeth, and unaesthetic clasps are limitation of conventional, nonimplantsupported RPD. These limitations frequently are accompanied by discomfort, accelerated tooth loss,
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