Mandibular Loop Connector: An Underrated Treatment Modality

Abstract

Connectors are the components of fixed dental pros thesis that join the individual retainers and pontics together. Connectors may be rigid or nonrigid. Loop connector is a type of rigid connector, indicated primarily when an existing diastema is to be maintained in a planned fixed prosthesis. Such cases can be treated with an implant supported prosthesis or a fixed prosthesis using a loop connector. In case of loop connector, the connector is in the form of a loop on the lingual aspect of the prosthesis that connects the adjacent retainer and pontic. Similarly, loop connector can also be used in the mandi bular anterior region for replacement of central incisors, using canines as abutments rather than mandibular laterals which usually have compromised bone support.There are many reports in literature describing the use of a loop connector in the maxillary anterior sextant. But, there are seldom reports about the use of a loop connector in the mandibular anterior region. This case report describes the use of a mandibular loop connector for the replacement of mandibular teeth where the adjacent teeth are periodontally compromised.