For years, anterior retention of partial dentures has been a creative balance between adequate retention and the patient’s desire for aesthetics. Traditionally, metal clasps have been the primary choice for providing retention.  Recently, tooth coloured clasp materials have been developed that improve the aesthetics, however, anterior teeth seldom have adequate undercuts to provide long-term retention.

A seemingly simple attachment has been developed which provides a solution that appeals to both the patient and the dentist. The Hannes Anchor is an intracoronal, spring loaded, plunger type attachment, which provides mechanical retention.  The internal spring of the male plunger activates only on insertion or removal. The stainless steel male plunger, which is embedded into the acrylic of the partial denture, engages a small dimple prepared into the mesial or distal surface of an abutment tooth.  A stainless steel female can be cemented into the enamel of the natural tooth, or incorporated into a crown. As well, a small dimple may be cut into the enamel with a round bur the same size as the plunger. The position of the dimple or female should be approximately 1.5mm to 3mm from the tissue. For additional support, a reciprocal lingual bracing arm can be incorporated with a rest seat.

This anterior aesthetic attachment will work with a newly designed case or can be incorporated to perform with existing bridgework. The amount of retention depends upon the engagement of the plunger into the depression, so care must be taken when the female depression is created. In some situations, some mild displacement can be felt if pulling on the anterior aspect of the RPD, however, patients find the design very retentive.

The next time you are faced with a situation where there is a lack of retention in the anterior of a cast partial denture; consider the many advantages of the Hannes Anchor.

Looking for new ideas – just another way we’re working harder and smarter for your practice!

A special Thank You to Dr. Stephen Abrams for providing the clinical pictures.