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Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question

A patient has a pier abutment (middle abutment between two edentulous spaces) in an RPD design. What is the PRIMARY concern?

  1. Esthetic compromise from visible metal
  2. Denture base fracture
  3. Insufficient retention from clasps
  4. Lever/fulcrum effect causing tipping forces on the pier abutment
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. Lever/fulcrum effect causing tipping forces on the pier abutment

  • A. Incorrect. Esthetics is a secondary concern — the main issue is biomechanical.
  • B. Incorrect. Denture base fracture is not the primary concern with pier abutments.
  • C. Incorrect. The primary concern is unfavorable biomechanical leverage on the pier abutment, not retention.
  • D. Correct. A pier abutment acts as a FULCRUM. Load applied to either extension base causes the RPD to ROTATE around the pier, creating tipping/vertical forces that damage the pier abutment's periodontal support. Solution: stress-breaker or non-rigid connector.

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