Which term refers to the metal extension that rests on the tooth?

Which term refers to the metal extension that rests on the tooth?

• A. Rest
• B. Retentive arm
• C. Bracing arm
• D. Minor connector

Answer: (A)

In removable partial dentures, the metal extension that rests on the tooth is called a rest. Its main job is vertical support: it seats on a prepared area of the abutment tooth (often a shallow fossa or marginal ridge) to resist tipping and displacement of the denture during function. By directing functional loads along the long axis of the tooth, the rest helps stabilize the denture and protect the tooth from unwanted movement and wear. The other terms refer to different parts of the framework: the retentive arm is the part of a clasp that provides retention by gripping the tooth; the bracing arm helps distribute and resist horizontal forces; and the minor connector links components of the denture framework.

In removable partial dentures, the metal extension that rests on the tooth is called a rest. Its main job is vertical support: it seats on a prepared area of the abutment tooth (often a shallow fossa or marginal ridge) to resist tipping and displacement of the denture during function. By directing functional loads along the long axis of the tooth, the rest helps stabilize the denture and protect the tooth from unwanted movement and wear.

The other terms refer to different parts of the framework: the retentive arm is the part of a clasp that provides retention by gripping the tooth; the bracing arm helps distribute and resist horizontal forces; and the minor connector links components of the denture framework.