Abstract
A removable partial denture (RPD) with a proper design and fabrication can be expected to maintainthe occlusal relationship for a long time without adversely affecting the remaining tissues, even whensubjected to repeated loads of severe occlusal forces over many years, and to extend the period of dentureuse. Conversely, an improperly designed denture can cause the mobility or loss of the remaining teeth, aswell as alveolar ridge resorption, which can lead to denture malfunctions and fractures, which can causerepeated instability of the occlusion and the need for dentures to be remade, ultimately ending in occlusalcollapse. The process of losing the remaining teeth due to improper prosthetic treatment and occlusal collapseis a negative spiral caused by a chain reaction that ends in an Eichner classification C1 or edentulousjaw. To prevent such situations, we should aim to manufacture dentures that can be used for a long timethat protect from further tooth loss. RPD designs must satisfy functional, physiological, and aesthetic conditions.They must be strong, durable, and adapt easily to changes. This article considers the essences ofRPD that have been used for more than 50 years. The principles of denture design with the goal of preservingthe remaining tissue, structural design to prevent denture fractures, and what dentures should be liketo adapt to a super-aging society are also reviewed.
