PRECISIVE MEANS TO MANAGE PIER ABUTMENTS

Abstract

Connector size, shape and position control the longevity of FPD. Rigid and non-rigid connectors both have effects on stress distribution in fixed partial denture with lone standing (pier) abutment. Rehabilitating two missing teeth with a middle pier abutment with rigid FPD is not a supreme management. When prosthesis comes in function, the pier abutment act as fulcrum, high stress concentration may occur at pier abutment ensuing in excessive displacement at terminal abutments. This pier abutment because of its strategic position when it is subjected to occlusal forces acting on the ends of the prostheses that will tend to lift the other end like a class I lever causing stress on the terminal abutments and ultimately failure of the FPD and trauma to the periodontium. Thus, the use of non-rigid connector in case of pier abutment is recommended. This case report presents two precisive methods to rehabilitate pier abutment cases using two types of semi precision attachments- plastic (prefabricated) and metal (custom made).