PARTS OF CLASP

Retentive Arm- Retention*
a. Orginates from the occlusal third and terminates in the cervical third
b. Placed on the buccal aspect
c. The retentive terminal engages the undercut – ie apical to the highest point of contour / the survey line.
d. Rest of the clasp has to be above the hight of contour.
e. It has tapering thickness when you talk about shape
f. It has to be sated passively, ie no force when already seated, and be only active or provide retention when dislodging forces are applied.


Reciprocal Arm- Stability*
a. Is placed on the lingual aspect
b. It originates from the occlusal third and terminates above the highest point of contour
c. Doesn’t have to engage in any undercut
d. Resists lateral movement of the prosthesis
e. Counteracts the force produced by clasp/ retentive arm
f. Resists potential orthodontic movement of the abutment

Body/Minor connector = stability*

Rest = support* to entire arm

Shoulder = connects the parts of clasp assembly, function – stability