What Are the Different Types of Partial Dentures

Aug. 13, 2024

Types of partial dentures

The two main types of partial dentures are removable and fixed. These differ, quite literally, in that one is removable and the other is a fixed oral appliance.

Removable

A removable partial denture is an oral appliance that uses clasps on the natural teeth surrounding a gap. These dentures are able to be removed at any point. Partial dentures come in three popular types: flexible, acrylic and cast metal.

Flexible

Acrylic: Acrylic partial dentures use acrylic flippers (false teeth) to hold them in place. Acrylic partials, also known as flippers or stay plates, are rigid in nature and don’t always conform to the movements of your mouth.. Acrylic partial dentures are generally less expensive than cast metal options but are often regarded as temporary devices and are not designed for long term use.
Cast metal: Cast metal partials are the most common type of removable partial denture.This form of partial denture places false plastic teeth within a metal frame and uses metal clasps that wrap around the surrounding natural teeth to hold it in place. Metal partials are precise and can last for many years, however many people find it difficult to adjust to the feeling of metal in the mouth. Metal partial dentures are typically more expensive than acrylic partials.
Flexible: Flexible partial dentures are a great option for those who prefer to stay away from metal or acrylic options. Flexible dentures are made of thin thermoplastic materials such as nylon that can flex to fit and conform to the natural movements of your mouth. Many people find flexible denture to be more comfortable than other partial denture options.

Fixed

A fixed partial denture replaces missing teeth with a permanent dental appliance. The two most popular forms of this are fixed bridges and implant supported bridges. For more detail on each type of bridge, check out our alternatives to implants guide.

Fixed Bridge: A fixed bridge works by using a dental prosthetic to replace a missing tooth or teeth. A false tooth is held in place by a crown that is known as an abutment.
Implant Supported: Implant supported bridges are the most permanent tooth replacement option as they rely on an implant to anchor them. In most cases, one implant is placed in the jaw for every missing tooth. Implant supported bridges do require surgery, but are very natural looking and can have a long lifespan.

What are ResetSmile Partial Dentures made from?

ResetSmile partial dentures are made out of Valplast, a flexible nylon resin that has been a popular denture material for more than seven decades. ResetSmile partial dentures are made to match your gums and teeth, are less expensive, lighter, and made more quickly than other partial denture options.