Flexible dentures can be a great solution for replacing any missing teeth. Flexible dentures are a type of partial denture made of different materials than ordinary partial dentures. Flexible dentures are an alternative to dental implants that employ metal frame, clasps and metal posts which helps to keep dentures in place on your gums. Exceedingly flexible dentures are made of a lightweight thin thermoplastic material such as nylon, in comparison to the thicker, more rigorous acrylic used in full dentures. Flexible dentures can be a more comfortable fit for a wearer than other removable partial dentures that sit neatly and unnoticeably. Flexible material reduces chair time, removes invasive procedures, and the inconvenient materials associated with rigid partials.
Advantages of flexible dentures
- These kinds of dentures are very light, strong and durable.
- The general size is thinner and more flexible compared to traditional metal or acrylic dentures.
- Flexible dentures are made without using a metal frame or any metal clasps to hold the denture in place making it feel a lot more natural.
- It is hypoallergenic as it does not contain the chemicals that are found in normal plastic dentures.
Disadvantages of flexible dentures
- Flexible dentures aren’t pertinent for patients having extensive problems with gum disease and who need to replace a full set of teeth.
- While flexible dentures rarely break than traditional dentures however, the wearer may need a replacement of an entire set if the set breaks.
- The material used in flexible dentures may be prone to bacterial growth.
Flexible denture applications
Flexible partial dentures are a better solution for some patients, including:
- In cases where rigorous dentures are difficult to be inserted because of tilted teeth.
- People who are allergic to acrylic.
- When irregular bone ridges cannot be fixed.
- People who suffer from limited mouth opening.
The flexible denture procedure
In your first appointment, your dentist will first discuss the treatment plan with you and take an impression of your teeth. Your dentist will insert the wax pattern of your flexible dentures in your mouth to create a model from the impression to assess the fit. The impression will then be sent to the laboratory for fabrication of the flexible denture. Once the dentures are prepared and are received back from the laboratory, your dentist will insert it into your mouth to see whether it needs some adjustments to fit in perfectly. Your dentist will ensure that the denture fits well and make any required final modifications.
Flexible denture cost
Flexible denture costs vary for each patient’s particular requirements. The flexible dentures cost will depend on factors such as the number of teeth that need to be replaced and how complex the treatment procedure is.