Host response to two different designs of minor connector.

Temperatures were recorded in thirty-two gingival crevices adjacent to proximal surfaces of abutment teeth fitted with minor connectors of an open space design, and in thirty gingival crevices adjacent to proximal surfaces fitted with minor connectors of a closed design. During the 2 week experimental period, the twenty-seven removable partial denture subjects who were involved in the study kept the accumulation of plaque to a minimum by applying specialized tooth-brushing. Although an equal but small amount of plaque formed in both groups, the presumed minimal rise in temperature stimulated by this plaque did not prevent the two connector designs from showing disparate effects on the crevicular temperature. It was concluded that the open space design of minor connector is less conducive to irritation of the adjacent marginal gingiva than is the closed design.