Which features characterize an RPA clasp?

Which features characterize an RPA clasp?

• A. Suprabulge design with a mesial rest, distal proximal plate, and Akers clasp
• B. Infrabulge design with a mesial rest, distal proximal plate, I bar
• C. Minor connector with guiding plane
• D. Major connector with occlusal rest

Answer: (A)

An RPA clasp is defined by three elements working together: a rest, a proximal plate, and an Akers clasp. The rest sits on the abutment tooth to place occlusal forces along the long axis and protect the edentulous area. The proximal plate extends onto the proximal surface near the edentulous span to stabilize the tooth, prevent food impaction, and provide reciprocal support. The Akers clasp is a suprabulge retentive arm that encircles the tooth to engage a buccal undercut for retention, with the retention located above the height of contour to minimize leverage on the tooth. Together, these features—the suprabulge Akers clasp, a mesial rest, and a distal proximal plate—characterize an RPA clasp.

An RPA clasp is defined by three elements working together: a rest, a proximal plate, and an Akers clasp. The rest sits on the abutment tooth to place occlusal forces along the long axis and protect the edentulous area. The proximal plate extends onto the proximal surface near the edentulous span to stabilize the tooth, prevent food impaction, and provide reciprocal support. The Akers clasp is a suprabulge retentive arm that encircles the tooth to engage a buccal undercut for retention, with the retention located above the height of contour to minimize leverage on the tooth. Together, these features—the suprabulge Akers clasp, a mesial rest, and a distal proximal plate—characterize an RPA clasp.