Abstract
To establish science-based I -bar clasp design of removable partial denture (RPD), the dimension of I -bar clasps of RPD patients was measured, and the stiffness and stress distribution of these I -bar clasps were evaluated with the finite element method. The results were as follows
1. The thicknesses and widths incross-sections of I -bar clasps were 0.3-1.0.
2. The width of the taper of horizontal arms of I -bar clasps was the largest (0.09).
3. The stiffness of I -bar clasps was greater than that of mechanical ideal I -bar clasps.
4. The stress analysis suggests a possibility of fatigue fracture or permanent deformation of I -bar clasps.
5. It may be more preferable to fabricate I -bar clasp arms thinner than commonly used arms. An Ibar clasp with a taper of 0.02 in width is preferred.
