Studying the Impact of Certain Variables of the Aker Clasp on Its Retentive Force on Selected Maxillary Teeth

This is the second article relating to the analysis of the effect of the retentive component on the retentive force. The objective is to show the impact of changing many parameters that govern retention of the clasp on abutment teeth. The study investigated the impact of several factors on the retentive force of the Aker clasp, focusing specifically on the retentive arm length, width, thickness, undercut depth, and angle of cervical convergence in designated maxillary teeth. A range of variables were assigned similar to what practitioners find in daily practice. The results indicated that the most effective parameters were the angle of cervical convergence, thickness, undercut, and width. The most affected tooth was the maxillary second premolar, due to its small size compared to molars. Therefore, the need for a new clasp design is crucial to solve this issue. This description intends to outline this priority for researchers and educators, to include this topic in their research, and for developers of removable partial denture programs to modernize it and add a scientific clue for the new era for new dentists, especially since this treatment modality is expected to continue in use for upcoming years.