What type of clasp design might be more prone to causing pressure areas in removable partial dentures?

The suprabulge clasp design is more prone to causing pressure areas in removable partial dentures because of its placement and engagement. With suprabulge clasps, the clasp arm originates above the height of contour of the abutment tooth and engages the tooth as it descends toward the gum line. This positioning can create a greater leverage effect, especially when the partial denture is inserted or removed, which may lead to excessive pressure on underlying tissues and cause irritation or discomfort.

In particular, the nature of suprabulge clasps means they are more visible and may engage more directly onto the tooth structure, which can result in localized areas of pressure on the soft tissue adjacent to the tooth. Proper design and fit are essential to mitigate these adverse effects, but the inherent characteristics of the suprabulge clasp design make it a more risky option for creating uncomfortable pressure points compared to other clasp types.

Other designs, such as infrabulge or bar clasps, typically engage below the height of contour and have different mechanical properties that may distribute forces more evenly, thus reducing the likelihood of creating pressure areas.