When is it necessary to avoid using incisor rests for partial dentures?

Using incisor rests in removable partial dentures can be problematic, particularly when patients exhibit mobility in their incisors. Incisor rests are designed to help distribute occlusal forces to the underlying dental structure. If the incisors are mobile, placing rests on them could exacerbate the instability of the teeth, leading to further mobility and potential loss of these teeth. This situation can compromise the integrity of the partial denture and may require alternative strategies, such as using other teeth for support, to ensure a stable and functional prosthesis.

In contexts such as the presence of adjacent molars or young patients, although there are considerations for treatment planning, these factors alone do not inherently eliminate the use of incisor rests. Severe periodontal disease does raise concerns about the overall health of the supporting structures but does not specifically dictate the avoidance of incisor rests without the context of mobility. Each case needs to be evaluated individually, considering the health and stability of all remaining teeth.