With advancements in denture technology, you might be considering whether metal-free partials are the right choice for you. When choosing dentures, factors such as cost, durability, and adaptability to changes in your mouth should be taken into account. The best option varies for each individual, depending on their current needs and future expectations.
Since dentures are worn daily, comfort and practicality are important considerations. Various materials, including acrylic, flexible resin, and metal alloys, are available, and finding the most suitable one for your needs can be a bit overwhelming.
Let’s explore the options to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
Partial dentures that include metal use the material as a means of connecting with teeth that remain in the mouth. They typically feature at least two clasps that securely grip onto the existing teeth, with the possibility of minor connectors for added support.
Because they already have firmer connections to the teeth, metal partial dentures tend to be smaller in length, height, and thickness. The clasps may also be visible – while they look similar to existing teeth, this may be an aesthetic drawback.
Metal partials are also significantly more expensive than their acrylic or plastic counterparts—anywhere between 25% and 75%. Additionally, they are hard to change, so more lost teeth can only increase their cost.
Metal-free partial dentures are typically made of acrylic or plastic. Because they don’t include metal clasps, they tend to be slightly larger than metal partials. However, advances in denture technology have made them equal in comfort to metal dentures.
One of the biggest advantages of metal-free partial dentures is their cost. They are significantly less expensive than metal partials, making them much more accessible to the vast majority of people requiring them. This also makes them a better fit for people who might lose more teeth down the line – they are easier to replace.
Because metal-free partials are not held as firmly in place, an accurate impression must be made. Failing to do so can result in sore spots and gum damage around the teeth. Because of the material they are made of, they are also somewhat more prone to damage and require more cleaning.
Aesthetic appeal: made from materials that closely resemble the natural color and appearance of gums and teeth
Comfortable: typically lightweight, making them more comfortable to wear
Short adjustment period: the flexibility and lightweight nature of these dentures can result in a shorter adjustment period
Durable: materials used in metal-free partial dentures are still robust and can withstand the forces of chewing and speaking well
Risk of breaks: susceptible to fractures or breakage compared to rigid metal frameworks
Not Suitable for All Cases: not for situations where greater stability or support is required
Cost: can sometimes be more expensive than traditional metal-based dentures
So, which is the better choice: metal partial dentures or acrylic partial dentures? While metal partials have historically had a significantly better fit than acrylic partials, advances have made the difference between the two virtually indistinguishable.
Three considerations to make include:
With Dental Lab Direct, ordering flexible, metal-free partial dentures is hassle-free and as simple as one, two, or three. We offer customized, flexible dentures at affordable prices. Our appliances are professionally crafted using FDA-approved materials that are safe for you and your family.
Here at Dental Lab Direct, we aim to keep things user-friendly and stress-free. When you complete our three-step ordering process, you save a trip to the dentist’s office and will receive your custom appliance in just a few weeks.
Interested in improving your smile? Get started today.
Satisfaction is our goal. If for any reason you aren't happy with your custom-made DLD appliance, just contact us and we'll make sure you are.
Professional service easy instructions to follow
Thank you for making the process of the partial denture for my Mom comprehensive, simple and most importantly accurate. For years, people have trusted the dentist to assist them and unfortunately when profit rules, care and quality suffer. Grateful for Dental Lab Direct and your care /professionalism.
Fits excellent bit tooth is not aligned with other teeth it sticks out
I'm very much pleased as, this is my second experience with your company. Cheryl Harris
Your customer service and quality control are top notch! Would recommend you to anyone looking for affordable partial dentures.
Much better quality and fit than the partial I bought in Mazatlan 15 years ago that had wire attachment to adjacent teeth.
This is my story, I was fishing on Lake Nokomus,in Minneapolis Minnesota, I had just finished a beer and some went down the wrong pipe. I started to cough and out of my mouth and into the lake went my teeth.
I went to 3 different dentist in the area. I explained I had a lower plate for years, but every single one ignored what I wanted and tried to get me to do full tooth removal and implants. The quotes were $19,000 -$25,000. To which I replied I’m not looking to leave them to someone in my will. Thank god a google search turned up dentallab Direct. In a month my lower plate was replaced at a price I could afford.
I am so impressed with how simple, and fast the entire process was. I just got my partial today and it fits perfectly and looks so natural!
Firstly thank you dental lab direct for the wonderful job you guys did ., although I think you guys should change the name to miracle lab direct because that's exactly what you guys are delivering ..I'm so satisfied with my order and my smile has never looked this good . I recommend anyone who's missing teeth to contact dental lab direct ,place your order ,follow the simple instructions , and let dental lab direct do the rest and I promise you won't be disappointed..Again thank you dental lab direct for the awesome job you guys are doing , if I could hug you guys right now it would be the biggest hug ever 😊
Excellent fit and looks great
My smile is back and a good "place holder" until I can get some permanent work done .
Just got my custom mouthguard and it fits like a glove. Super comfortable
It was so easy getting a hold of customer service team with questions while I was doing my impressions, clear and concise! Just so easy and so happy I found Dental Direct!
The customer support is great, i needed a slight adjustment and it was done without an issue.
Very natural looking appliance. People can't even tell.
No more metal in my mouth, thank you!!
I got a front toot hfinally replaced.