What is an example of a major connector used in a maxillary RPD?

What is an example of a major connector used in a maxillary RPD?

• A. Palatal plate
• B. Rests
• C. Retentive arms
• D. Minor connectors

Answer: (A)

Major connectors are the rigid pathways that join all parts of the denture across the arch, distributing forces and tying left and right sides together in a maxillary RPD. A palatal plate fits this role perfectly because it spans the palate and forms a single, rigid connection that links components like rests and indirect retainers. The other items aren’t major connectors: rests sit on abutment teeth to resist vertical movement; retentive arms are part of the clasp system used for retention; minor connectors are small links that connect the major connector to other components, not the primary bridge across the palate.

Major connectors are the rigid pathways that join all parts of the denture across the arch, distributing forces and tying left and right sides together in a maxillary RPD. A palatal plate fits this role perfectly because it spans the palate and forms a single, rigid connection that links components like rests and indirect retainers. The other items aren’t major connectors: rests sit on abutment teeth to resist vertical movement; retentive arms are part of the clasp system used for retention; minor connectors are small links that connect the major connector to other components, not the primary bridge across the palate.