For the stability of removable partial dentures, both the occlusal relationship and the design of the denture are important.
A mandibular simulation model with three remaining teeth (Nos. 22, 27, and 31 or Nos. 22, 27 and 31; universal tooth numbering system) was used in this study.
Occlusal contact in the lateral eccentric jaw relation was varied, and the stress distribution of abutment teeth and displacement of the denture base were examined.
The results were as follows:
The occlusal contact in the lateral eccentric jaw relation rather than kind of retainer seemed to influence the stress distribution of abutment teeth and displacement of the denture base.
In the case of bilateral balanced occlusion, there was no obvious difference between an Akers clasp and a cone-telescopic crown.
Denture stability could be maintained by group functioned occlusion as well as by bilateral balanced occlusion, depending on the pattern of the remaining teeth.
The results suggested that in the case of an asymmetrical pattern of the remaining teeth, occlusal contact in the right and left lateral eccentric jaw relation must be changed.