Precision Attachments

Precision attachments can be used in a variety of applications but are designed principally to minimise the load on abutment teeth and to support and stabilise overdentures. These devices can be classified as:

Intradental Attachments

These attachments are housed within the crown or root structure of a natural tooth. Intra-dental attachments can be further classified into two groups indicating the type of retentive mechanism used to unite the parts. They are:

• frictional, with designs having tapered and parallel-walled boxes and tubes, adjustable metal plates, springs, studs or locks
• magnetic.

Extradental Attachments

This class of attachment devices may be divided into two groups:

• cantilever (which can be rigid or mobile) – eg. CEKA and VKS (Bredent)
• bar attachment.