Flexible dentures are a type of partial denture made to replace one or more missing teeth using a soft, clear base which allows your own gums to show through. Flexible partial dentures are made with nylon resin that mimic the natural tissues of your mouth unlike traditional dentures that are made with a rigid acrylic based material and cast metal clasps. With flexible dentures there is no need for clips or attachments and are made from a thermoplastic material, making them flexible and comfortable.
Advantages of flexible dentures:
Below are some of the benefits of flexible dentures:
- Flexible partial dentures are thin, lightweight, and bendable making them much more comfortable compared to traditional dentures.
- These dentures are less likely to cause allergic reactions as they do not contain metal and are BPA-free.
- Non absorbent of stains or smell.
- Aesthetically pleasing and look virtually invisible and natural as they use a flexible material to transparent or tissue-colored clasps to surround your natural teeth remaining teeth rather than metal.
- Comfortable in the mouth due to their flexibility.
- Strongly adhere to your gums on their own without requiring dental adhesives or metal clasps.
- Flexible partial dentures provide an easier procedure as they are quicker to manufacture and don’t require as many appointments.
- Durable, unlikely to crack or shatter and can even last a lifetime.
- Treatment for flexi dentures are non-evasive.
- Have a softer base in comparison to traditional ones.
Disadvantages of Flexible Dentures:
Despite their many benefits, there are also some disadvantages of partial dentures to consider when it comes to flexible partial dentures.
- Cost may be higher than traditional dentures due to complicated fabrication.
- Does not offer the bite strength of dental implants.
- More prone to have bacteria buildup.
- Difficult for dental professionals to fit and adjust.
- Main flexible denture disadvantage can be that it cannot be relined.
Are flexible dentures the right choice for you?
There are a range of denture options when you’re missing your teeth to choose from, accommodating a variety of different people, teeth and mouth types. Types of flexible denture can vary depending on your dental requirements. You may also prefer to go for alternatives, such as dental implants. But, if you’re considering getting partial dentures, then you may want a flexible denture. Flexible partial dentures can be a great solution for replacing missing teeth and alternative to dental implants which use clasps and metal posts to hold dentures in place on your gums. These dentures use comfortable, lightweight materials which sit neatly and unnoticeably. Flexible partial dentures are a perfect fit for many, due to the comfort and safety that they offer. However, these dentures aren’t suitable for some patients that need to replace a full set of teeth or have extensive problems with gum disease. Flexible partial dentures can be a good choice for you
- If you have tilted teeth and find rigid dentures challenging to insert.
- Are allergic to acrylic.
- If you have irregular bone ridges that cannot be fixed.
- Suffer from limited mouth openings.