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flexible dentures procedure, types, pros, cons & cost

What are Flexible Partial Dentures?

Losing teeth is a common problem, and conventional dentures were for a long time the least expensive solution. 

Usually, this dental appliance is constructed from a metal plate with acrylic gums and porcelain or composite resin teeth. 

Flexible partial dentures have recently been made available as a new alternative on the market. This type of restoration is claimed to flex and fit into your mouth more comfortably.

Flexible partial dentures are only appropriate for people who still have some of their natural teeth, as the name suggests. 

There is currently no adaptable option available for people who are completely toothless. 

These dentures are softer and more flexible than standard dentures, which addresses many of the problems associated with wearing dentures in general. 

They are made from a flexible, lightweight material called thermoplastic nylon resin.

How Do Flexible Dentures Work?

They work by providing a comfortable, natural-looking, and functional solution for individuals with missing teeth or partial tooth loss. 

They are designed to replace missing teeth while adapting to the unique contours of a patient’s mouth. 

The Process is as Follows:

1. Assessment and Consultation

A dentist or a prosthodontist assesses your oral health and discusses your specific needs and goals.

2. Treatment Plan

This plan outlines the number of missing teeth, their location, and the best way to restore your smile. 

Flexible dentures are most commonly used to replace missing teeth in the upper or lower arches, either partially or completely.

3. Impressions and Measurements

To create customized dentures, precise impressions and measurements of your mouth are taken. 

This involves taking a dental mould and digital scanning technology to capture the exact shape and size of your gums and any remaining teeth.

4. Design and Fabrication

Your flexible dentures are made to order in a dental laboratory after impressions are taken. 

This design ensures that the dentures will fit in seamlessly with your current dental structure by taking into account the colour, size, and shape of your natural teeth.

5. Material Choice:

The most common material used to create flexible dentures is thermoplastic nylon resin. 

This substance was selected due to its biocompatibility, durability, and flexibility. It enables the dentures to be flexible, pleasant, and durable.

6. Fitting and Modifications:

You go back to the dentist for fitting once the flexible dentures are finished. 

The dentist will examine the dentures in your mouth for fit, comfort, and look. To achieve a tight, secure fit, any necessary alterations are made.

7. Wearing Flexible Dentures

You can start wearing your flexible dentures once they have been correctly fitted. The flexible material conforms to the shapes of your mouth to fit securely and comfortably. 

Because they are less prone to irritate or aggravate sore places, many individuals find flexible dentures to be more comfortable than conventional acrylic dentures.

8. Care and Maintenance:

Maintaining and caring for your flexible dentures properly is crucial to ensuring their durability. 

This entails routine washing with a gentle denture cleanser or soap and a soft toothbrush. 

Additionally, it's essential to take off your dentures at night so that your gums may relax.

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What are Flexible Denture Materials?

  • The material used to create flexible dentures is a thermoplastic nylon resin; such as Valplast, TCS (ThermoSens), etc. 
  • This material is chosen for its flexibility, durability, lightweight nature and biocompatibility. 
  • It allows the dentures to adapt comfortably to the contours of the patient's mouth while providing a natural appearance. 
  • This material is known for its resistance to breakage and is considered an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement solution.

Different Types of Flexible Dentures

1. Valplast Dentures

  • They are a popular brand of flexible dentures, known for their flexibility and durability

  • They are made from a biocompatible nylon material, making them comfortable and resistant to breakage

  • They are often chosen for their natural appearance and ability to adapt to the contours of the mouth

2. TCS (ThermoSens) Flexible Dentures

  • These are crafted from ThermoSens, a thermoplastic material that offers a secure and comfortable fit.

  • These are known for their lightweight and non-allergenic properties, making them suitable for many patients

They are easy to adjust, ensuring an optimal fit over time

3. FlexiLytes Dentures

  • These combine flexibility with customization to provide a lifelike and comfortable tooth replacement solution

  • They are noted for their stain resistance and ease of maintenance, contributing to their popularity among wearers.

Flexible Dentures vs Acrylic Dentures

  1. Both of the dentures are 2 common options for tooth replacement. 
  2. Flexible dentures, made from thermoplastic nylon resin, offer enhanced comfort and a more natural appearance due to their flexibility and lightweight nature. 
  3. They are less likely to cause irritation or sore spots and are durable. In contrast, acrylic dentures are made of rigid acrylic materials. 
  4. They are more affordable but may be bulkier and less comfortable for some individuals. 
  5. The choice between the 2 options depends on individual preferences, oral health and budget, with flexible dentures often preferred for superior comfort and aesthetics.

Pros of Flexible Dentures

Let's look at some of the benefits of these dentures-

1. They do not easily break.

Dropping dentures can frequently result in a crack because they are composed of a tougher material. 

Dentures that break require expensive and time-consuming replacement. Partials that are more flexible have more give and can sustain falls better.

2. Soft than conventional dentures

Regular dentures are made of hard material, which can irritate your gums' sensitive tissue. You may stop wearing your dentures on a regular basis as a result of this discomfort.

Softer materials used in flexible partial dentures make them easier on your gums. Dentures might be worn all day long as you take pleasure in life's best moments, such as scrumptious meals with loved ones.

3. Do not need metal or glue

For a number of reasons, metal can be hazardous, especially when attempting to board a plane! 

However, removing metal from your mouth also has the advantage of preventing gum irritation and redness, which are two common side effects of metal consumption. Traditional dentures can become painful as a result of this.

Did you know that the glue used in dentures can also hurt your mouth's soft tissues? Because flexible partials don't need adhesives, there may be less mouth irritability.

4. Aesthetically blend with your natural gums

The flexible pink material that makes up flexible partial dentures frequently lets the gums peek through. Unlike other kinds of dentures, this one allows you to smile more naturally.

5. Faster to produce

Traditional dentures require at least 4 appointments and 3–to 6 weeks for preparation. This excludes the tooth extraction procedure, as well as the additional appointments and time needed. 

The entire process might take up to ten weeks once you include the additional time. This can be quite draining and complicate your life needlessly.

Cons of Flexible Dentures

There are also a few disadvantages to keep in mind: 

1. Bacteria accumulation

Flexible partial denture material can be susceptible to bacterial growth. Bacterial growth is encouraged by the material's softness and flexibility. 

Because of this, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and to clean your partial dentures every day. Gingivitis and gum disease can result from failing to do this.

2. Incompatible with patients with a history of severe periodontitis 

Flexible ridges' edges that frequently come into contact with food or drink can provide a breeding ground for bacteria. 

Additionally, since flexible dentures are simple to take out and replace, contamination risk might be increased by doing so frequently. 

Patients who have a history of gum disease or are at risk for developing it should be cautious about wearing flexible dentures since germs can grow there easily.  

3. Not repairable

Although flexible partial dentures are far more difficult to break than conventional dentures, they are more difficult to fix. It could be necessary to replace the entire set if you break them.

4. Not long-term

For those seeking a tooth replacement solution that feels more natural and requires less upkeep, flexible partial dentures give a less permanent feel.

Cost of Flexible Dentures

On average, you can expect the price range to be between INR 15,000 and 40,000 or more, per arch. 

This cost varies depending on the location of the clinic, the complexity of dental restoration needed and the materials used.

Conclusion

In conclusion, flexible dentures provide patients in need of dental restoration with a comfortable, dependable, and realistic-looking option. 

Even though they might cost more upfront, the long-term advantages they offer, such as increased quality of life, frequently surpass the original outlay.

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FAQs

What are Flexible Dentures? 

They are dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth. They are made from a flexible, lightweight material called thermoplastic nylon resin. 

These dentures offer a comfortable and natural-looking solution for individuals with partial or complete tooth loss.

How Do Flexible Dentures Work? 

They work by using a flexible material that adapts to the contours of your mouth. They replace missing teeth, providing a secure and comfortable fit. 

This material is lightweight, durable and resistant to breakage, making it ideal for those seeking functional and aesthetic tooth replacement options.

Are Flexible Dentures Permanent? 

They are not since they can be removed from your mouth. However, they are considered a long-term solution for tooth replacement, with a lifespan of several years when properly cared for.

How Long Do They Last?

The lifespan of flexible dentures can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance and your individual oral hygiene. 

On average, flexible dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with more proper care.

Are Flexible Dentures Comfortable? 

Yes. they are known for their comfort. Their flexibility allows them to adapt to the unique shape of your mouth, reducing the likelihood of irritation and sore spots often associated with traditional dentures.

Are Flexible Dentures Toxic? 

No, they are generally safe and non-toxic. The materials used, such as thermoplastic nylon resin, are biocompatible and approved for dental use.

Do Flexible Dentures Look Natural? 

Yes, they are designed to look natural. They are translucent and gum-coloured, which allows them to blend seamlessly with your mouth.

Are Flexible Dentures Better than Other Dentures? 

Individual demands and preferences determine whether flexible dentures are superior to other types of dentures. 

They have benefits including comfort and a natural appearance, but the sort of denture you choose should take your budget and dental problems into account.

How Much Do Flexible Dentures Cost? 

Flexible dentures might cost more or less depending on the location, the complexity, and the materials used. 

In India, Flexible dentures might cost an average between 15,000 and 40,000 rupees or more for each arch. It is advisable to speak with a local dentist for accurate cost estimates because prices vary across the world.

How Do Flexible Dentures Stay In Place? 

Flexible dentures maintain their position by adhering to the contours of your mouth with their flexible material and by creating suction against your gums. Their stability is also aided by proper fitting and routine dental exams.

Can I Eat with Flexible Dentures?

You can eat while wearing flexible dentures, yes. Many people discover that flexible dentures allow for a more natural chewing motion and allow them to easily enjoy a variety of foods. 

To get used to your dentures, it's best to start with soft foods and then gradually add harsher textures.