Thermoplastic Resins: A Novel Approach to Removable Partial Dentures

Abstract

Behind all complexities in the world stand simple solutions. In the present era of fixed prosthetic dentistry cast partial dentures are still being used owing to the anatomical and biomechanical constraints in the oral cavity. The difficulties encountered by patients with cast partial denture are an age old saga. The common problems are unaesthetic appearance of the clasp, rigidity of denture base resin, unavoidable tooth preparation, weight of the prosthesis, the lever effect causing abusive forces on the abutments, etc. Thermoplastic resins with inherent flexibility are the panacea for this problem. Therapeutic use of these resins has drastically sprung up in the last decade. Unlike the conventional technique of making dentures, flexible dentures are made by injection molding technique. Various thermoplastic resins are available in the market today. This article presents a review of   thermoplastic resins with their properties and aims at the potential areas of application and advances in future.

Keywords: Thermoplastic resins, Esthetic clasps, Flexible denture, Injection molding technique