Which component is primarily responsible for retention by engaging the tooth surface?

Which component is primarily responsible for retention by engaging the tooth surface?

• A. Rest
• B. Minor Connector
• C. Major Connector
• D. Retentive Arm

Answer: (D)

Retention in an RPD mainly comes from a direct retainer that grips an undercut on the tooth. The retentive arm is the part of the clasp that reaches onto the tooth and engages that undercut, providing the primary resistance to tipping or lifting of the denture. Other parts have different jobs: rests support the denture and distribute forces to the tooth and ridge; major connectors form the rigid framework that ties the denture together; minor connectors link the direct retainer to the rest of the framework. But the actual grip that holds the denture in place against dislodging is the retentive arm engaging the tooth undercut.

Retention in an RPD mainly comes from a direct retainer that grips an undercut on the tooth. The retentive arm is the part of the clasp that reaches onto the tooth and engages that undercut, providing the primary resistance to tipping or lifting of the denture.

Other parts have different jobs: rests support the denture and distribute forces to the tooth and ridge; major connectors form the rigid framework that ties the denture together; minor connectors link the direct retainer to the rest of the framework. But the actual grip that holds the denture in place against dislodging is the retentive arm engaging the tooth undercut.