FPD Connector Design — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateProsthodonticsFPD Connector DesignNDEB AFK

A patient requires a fixed partial denture (bridge) from tooth 34 to 36 with 35 as the pontic. What is the minimum connector cross-sectional area recommended for a metal-ceramic FPD?

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Correct answer: C — 6 mm²

The minimum recommended connector cross-sectional area for metal-ceramic fixed partial dentures is approximately 6 mm² (typically 2.5 mm buccolingually × 2.5 mm occlusogingivally). Inadequate connector dimensions are the most common cause of framework fracture. For all-ceramic FPDs, larger connectors (9-16 mm²) are recommended due to the lower fracture toughness of ceramic materials.

Reference: Shillingburg – Fundamentals of Fixed Prosthodontics, 4th ed., 2012