Josie Dovidio DDS

METAL FRAMEWORK partials are traditionally the most common type of partial dentures. They are constructed of a metal framework, with necessary areas covered by denture teeth and gum colored acrylic. There usually are 2 or more metal clasps that hook onto the remaining natural teeth to aid in retention.  A few of the natural teeth may need to be modified to allow the framework to seat flush on the teeth and distribute forces properly.  Because these are metal based, esthetics are sometimes a concern.

Caution: Patients with sensitivity to certain metals (i.e. Nickel), may want to consider a non-metal option. However, special metals do exist for allergic patients so be sure to ask about all the options.

FLEXIBLE BASE partial dentures are made with a state-of-the-art thermoplastic material that is translucent allowing the natural coloring of your tissue to show through so that it blends well in the mouth.

They are flexible and therefore easier to insert.  This type of partial denture is great for people with acrylic allergies and for

patients who have an irregular jawbone.

This option may not be suitable for patients in need of a more rigid appliance due to poor soft tissue support, few remaining teeth, or not enough bone support in areas where the teeth need to be replaced.

CLEARFRAME® PARTIAL DENTURES are designed like traditional metal framework partials but the denture acrylic is built on a clear nylon framework in place of a metal framework. ClearFrame® is made from a state-of-the-art injection-molded nylon material that is stronger than conventional acrylic. The clasps work in the same manner as they do on a metal framework, engaging undercuts on the teeth.

As you can imagine, the esthetics of the ClearFrame® partial are better than the metal framework partials.

There may be an extra charge for this framework as this material is considered an upgrade form standard materials.

ACRYLIC PARTIALS are made entirely of standard dental acrylic. They are not as strong as the metal ones, so they do tend to be more fragile. Like  metal framework partials, they typically have metal retaining clasps that hook onto the remaining natural teeth.

This kind of partial is typically the least expensive option.