Flexible Partial Dentures
Comfortable, good-looking tooth replacement solutions
Removable partial dentures designed to replace one or more missing teeth.
Flexible Partial Dentures
Comfortable, good-looking tooth replacement solutions
Flexible Dentures
Missing teeth can trigger a cascade of problems beyond what is initially obvious when you look in the mirror. Chewing, speaking clearly and even the health of your jawbone can all suffer, with impacts only getting worse the longer your situation goes unaddressed. Over time, missing teeth can lead to shifting teeth and other complicated dental health issues, further compromising your overall well-being and your sense of confidence.
At Simply Teeth, we offer a variety of modern dentistry solutions to help you solve the problems caused by missing teeth. One of our effective options is flexible partial dentures. These comfortable, lightweight and metal-free oral appliances are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring those around you are none the wiser that you are even wearing them.
What are flexible partial dentures made of?
Valplast flexible partials are made from a unique biocompatible nylon-based thermoplastic resin. It’s a material that is kind to your body, minimising the risk of tissue irritation or allergic reactions. Unlike traditional dentures that may contain metal or acrylic monomers, Valplast resin is free of these potential allergens, making it a great choice for patients with sensitivities.
The inherent strength and flexibility of the nylon resin allow the partial denture to be crafted thin, conforming comfortably to the contours of your mouth with minimal weight. You can expect it to feel quite natural in your mouth — and be significantly more comfortable than a rigid denture.
Advantages
When you compare Valplast flexible partials to traditional partial dentures, several advantages stand out which make them a desirable option for many patients. Here’s a breakdown of their key benefits:
Natural aesthetics: Valplast material comes in a gum-like colour, making the clasps and base of the partial virtually invisible when worn. This significantly improves aesthetics by creating a natural look that blends seamlessly with your smile.
Metal-free design: Unlike traditional partials that often use metal clasps, Valplast partials are entirely metal-free. This addresses two concerns: some patients may find metal clasps aesthetically unpleasing, while others might have metal allergies.
Reversible treatment: The minimal tooth modification needed for partial dentures makes the treatment reversible. This can be beneficial for patients who may consider exploring other restorative options in the future.
Suitable temporary solution: It can serve as a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing temporary solution while awaiting permanent restorations like dental implants.
Faster fabrication process: The process of creating flexible partial dentures is typically faster than traditional dentures. This translates to fewer dental appointments for patients.
Enhanced comfort: The flexible material of Valplast partials gently conforms to the natural contours of your gums and teeth. This creates a snug and comfortable fit, eliminating the bulky and sometimes irritating feeling associated with traditional dentures.
Durability despite flexibility: Valplast’s surprising strength belies its flexible nature. These partials are remarkably resistant to breakage and unlikely to crack or break even if accidentally dropped.
Minimally invasive procedure: In many cases, getting flexible partial dentures requires little to no preparation of your existing teeth. This is a significant advantage, especially for patients who are apprehensive about procedures like drilling.
Cost-effective choice: While generally more expensive than traditional partials with metal clasps, flexible partial dentures offer a more budget-friendly option compared to fixed restorations like implants or bridges.
Considerations
Limited replacements:
When you have a few missing teeth, partial dentures can be a great choice. However, they are not ideal for extensive support needs.
Moderate chewing:
Being flexible maximises comfort, but they are but not as strong as metal for very tough bites.
Staining possible:
Certain foods and drinks can cause staining of the material.
Repair challenges:
Repairs might be more complex compared to traditional dentures.
Who is a candidate for flexible partial dentures?
Flexible partial dentures can be an excellent option for patients with:
- One or a few missing teeth
- A desire for a comfortable and natural-looking partial denture
- Difficulty tolerating traditional partial dentures
- Gum tissue and surrounding teeth in good health
- Missing teeth which do not require strong biting strength
- Sensitivity to metal
Talking to your Simply Teeth dentist
If you’re considering flexible partial dentures, book your consultation with one of our cosmetic dentists. We can assess your individual needs and determine if it is the right solution for you. During the consultation, we will:
- Examine your mouth and teeth
- Discuss your dental history and any allergies you may have
- Review your expectations for tooth replacement
- Explain the procedure for creating partial dentures
- Discuss the care and maintenance of flexible partials
Flexible partial dentures procedure
Our procedure typically involves:
Consultation:
This initial appointment is all about your needs! We’ll discuss your dental history, thoroughly examine your mouth to assess the health of your teeth and gums and answer any questions you may have about flexible partial dentures. This will help us determine if they are the best solution for replacing your missing teeth.
Digital impressions:
Simply Teeth uses advanced digital scanners to capture highly accurate 3D images of your teeth and gums. This eliminates the need for traditional impressions, offering a more comfortable and convenient experience.
Fabrication:
Once the impressions are taken, they are sent to a trusted dental lab where skilled technicians will custom-craft your flexible partial denture. The lab uses the precise mould of your mouth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit when you return to Simply Teeth.
Fitting and adjustments:
At this appointment, we will place the finished partial denture in your mouth and assess the fit. We’ll check for any areas that might need minor adjustments to optimise comfort and ensure proper function when speaking and eating.
Care and maintenance:
Before you leave, we will provide you with detailed instructions on caring for your flexible denture. This includes proper cleaning techniques to keep your partial fresh and storage practices to ensure it lasts for many years.
We are committed to providing you with a positive dental experience throughout the entire flexible partial denture process. If you have any questions or concerns at any stage, you’re welcome to ask your Simply Teeth dentist.
Caring for flexible partial dentures
Proper care is essential to ensure keeping your partial denture in great condition so it can do its job for a long time. Here are some key points:
- Brush daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser specifically designed for flexible partials.
- Brush daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser specifically designed for flexible partials.
- Rinse thoroughly with water after brushing and soaking.
- Rinse thoroughly with water after brushing and soaking.
- Handle with care to avoid accidental bending or cracking.
- Store in a denture cleaning solution or water when not in use to keep it moist.
- Book your regular dental check-ups for professional cleaning and evaluation of the partial denture's fit.
Flexible partial dentures in West Perth
Flexible partials are surprisingly comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and budget-friendly replacements for missing teeth. Their unique design which combines flexible, strong and lightweight materials delivers natural looks, improved oral health and utmost comfort. There is more to learn, and a lot to gain! So, get in touch with your dentist to discover if flexible partial dentures are a suitable solution for you.
