We couldn’t locate a source that gave an estimate of how long flexible acrylic partials last. This might include tooth wear, or denture base deterioration and staining. For example, they are used mostly to replace missing teeth but have been known to improve eating habits by enhancing the chewing action. A number of variables will determine how long a set of partials will last. There are a number of reasons why dentures, and different types of partial dentures in particular, are chosen. Generally speaking, removable partials can cost between 3-hundred and 18-hundred dollars each. – Projections / Statistics. It must be stated that generally speaking acrylic partials tend to be more damaging to natural teeth (possibly substantially so) than cast partials, thus shortening the appliance’s effective lifespan due to tooth loss (see below). All types of dentures share some similar aspects in their construction and therefore tend to experience many of the same types of failures. Whether they are made from metal or acrylic and how many are required and how they will be mounted all have a part to play in how much partial dentures will cost. And if needed, additional teeth and clasps can frequently be added too. Note: Tooth loss, or any event that changes the shape of a tooth that a cast partial clasps onto (like when a new dental restoration is placed), has the potential to significantly alter its fit, possibly even making it unwearable. Regular checkups are required to ensure changes to the mouth do not result in poorly fitting dentures. A partial, which is made from either a metal alloy or acrylic plastic, is typically held in place with a series of tiny clasps that either fit alongside or wrap around existing teeth. While having a removable partial denture (aka “partial plate”) made can be a very cost-effective way to replace multiple missing teeth, before spending money for one you might want to have an idea of how long it should last. Fixed partial dentures … Dentures should then be rinsed off and gently pat dry. Failure of Removable Dental Prostheses: An Evidence-Based Review. Takabayashi found that flexible acrylics (including Valplast®) tended to pick up staining from highly colored foods more so than conventional acrylics. Generally speaking, flexible acrylic partials can be considered to be a more esthetic, possibly more comfortable to wear, version of standard acrylic ones. Treatment outcomes with mandibular removable partial dentures: a population-based study of patient satisfaction. Small concerns could become serious to the point where gum disease or tooth decay may form if not checked on a regular basis. Ten-year evaluation of removable partial dentures: survival rates based on retreatment, not wearing and replacement. If the partial is not taken out regularly and this plaque removed, the formation of tooth decay is a distinct possibility. Their longevity depends on everyday use and, how well they are cared for. In these types of cases, appliance replacement may make the better (more predictable, lasting) plan. Just like with standard acrylic appliances, flexible partials tend to cause damage to neighboring natural teeth over the long term. Snap-in dentures are a more permanent solution that can help you eat, talk and smile confidently again. Your dentist will give you specific instruction about how long the denture should be worn and when it should be removed. Full and partial dentures are easy to care for but require special treatment compared to regular teeth. As an alternative, 1) cast-metal partials, 2) acrylic partials. Acrylic partials are the least expensive type of removable denture and are not meant to last a long time. Partial dentures require regular check-ups by your dentist. The Vermeulen study mentioned above determined that at 5 years 60% of cast-metal cases required some type of repair of adjacent natural teeth, at 10 years 80%. Generally speaking, this is considered to be a less desirable, or just temporary, alternative to a cast partial. Also, clasp damage or breakage frequently cannot be satisfactorily repaired. Adjusting Beyond 30 Days. After 30 days, most people are cleared to engage in most activities. But since the shape of an appliance’s plastic does not change, its fit will no longer be ideal. A partial denture is a type of dental prosthetic which is designed to replace one or more missing teeth. A paper by Schwass cites a publication by Walmsley (2003) that suggests that acrylic partials have an expected life span of only 6 to 12 months.