For centuries, dentures have been the go-to way to replace missing teeth.
And, being a highly effective and budget-friendly restorative dental treatment, it’s easy to see why.
Recent advancements in dental technology now mean there are several different types of dentures available – with flexible and acrylic dentures being just some of the options that are now on offer to patients.
But how are they different from traditional dentures and how do you decide which ones are best for you?
In this post, our experts at Revitalise Dental Centre walk you through the similarities, differences, and everything else you need to keep in mind when choosing between flexible dentures Cornwall and acrylic dentures Cornwall.
What are flexible dentures?
Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on metal clasps or dental implants or adhesives to provide stability for a full smile replacement, flexible dentures are a perfect partial option for those who have healthy teeth remaining.
As the name suggests, flexible dentures are made from soft, flexible materials, like thermoplastic nylon resin, and are designed to fit the contours of your gums and adapt to fit the shape of your mouth for a much more comfortable fit.
Using invisible clasps that surround the natural teeth, patients often find that flexible dentures make chewing much easier and that they’re much more straightforward to keep clean.
What are acrylic dentures?
Acrylic dentures are a popular removable option and are often used for both complete and partial restorations.
Made from pink plastic to mimic natural gum tissue and held in place using gum suction or metal clasps, acrylic dentures look, feel, and perform just like your own teeth. .
Generally, acrylic dentures are one of the most affordable options, too, and they’re incredibly easy to fit and take care of.
Flexible vs acrylic dentures: Which is best for me?
The choice between flexible and acrylic dentures can be a tough one, but to make your decision process a little easier, you should weigh up the following factors:
- Comfort
If comfort is the most important thing for you when considering dentures, you’ll be best opting for flexible dentures.
As we touched on earlier, flexible dentures are renowned for their flexibility and ability to conform to the shape of your mouth, compared to acrylic dentures which may feel bulkier and less natural when first fitted.
- Cost
For those wanting to replace missing teeth on a budget, acrylic dentures may be a better fit.
Flexible dentures are often more expensive, due to the materials used as well as the manufacturing process, making acrylic a much more accessible alternative.
- Durability
Being made from much sturdier and more robust materials, acrylic dentures tend to last much longer than flexible dentures and are much more resistant to wear and tear.
Acrylic dentures can last for up to 10 yearswhilst flexible ones can only ensure up to 8 years. So, if you prioritise longevity and durability, acrylic may be the best choice for you.
- Aesthetics
Flexible dentures – being much thinner and more flexible than acrylic dentures – offer the most natural appearance.
As well as being thinner and much less noticeable, flexible dentures are also made from a translucent plastic that can be tinted to match the exact shade of your gums and use tissue-coloured clasps rather than metal clasps so that your new smile looks as seamless as possible.
- Maintenance
Both flexible and acrylic dentures require regular upkeep, but, thanks again to their flexibility, flexible dentures are usually easier to maintain compared to acrylic – which may require special care to prevent wear and tear.
Need further advice?
Whether you’re stuck between flexible and acrylic dentures or you’d like to find out more about the pros and cons of each before you make your decision, our experts are here for you.
Here at Revitalise Dental Centre, we’ve been offering top-quality acrylic dentures – alongside a range of other types of dentures and tooth replacement options – to our patients in Cornwall, and helping them achieve their dream smiles after tooth loss for many years.
With decades of combined experience, and all the latest skills, tools and knowledge, you can be confident you’re in the best hands with our team when you choose acrylic dentures in Cornwall.
Give us a call today on 01872 480 122 or email us at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can with more information or get you booked in for a consultation!
