What is considered desirable for major connectors of upper partial dentures?

The major connectors of upper partial dentures should ideally be positioned at least 5 mm away from the gingival margin to prevent any potential irritation to the gingiva and to allow for healthy oral hygiene practices. This distance helps to ensure that there is no impingement on the soft tissue, which can promote better comfort for the patient and reduce the risk of periodontal issues.

Maintaining this distance is crucial for proper function and overall patient satisfaction with the prosthesis. Being too close to the gingival margin can lead to tissue inflammation and discomfort, which is why a minimum distance is a standard guideline in denture design.

Other options present considerations that may not align with ideal practices. Covering the anterior palate can be unnecessary or uncomfortable for some patients, while the idea of using only metal does not account for the benefits of other materials. Finally, hiding the major connector under the tongue is impractical in design and function, as the connector needs to be appropriately placed within the oral cavity to provide stability and support for the denture.