MAXILLARY PARTIAL DENTURE - FLEXIBLE BASE (INCLUDING ANY CLASPS TEETH) (D5225)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Flexible Partial Denture, Flexible Base Upper Partial
• Medical Term: Maxillary Partial Denture - Flexible Base

Summary

A flexible partial denture is a type of removable dental appliance that replaces missing teeth in the upper jaw. The base of the denture is made of a flexible, non-metallic material for comfort and aesthetic purposes, often resembling the natural gum tissue.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: To address tooth loss due to decay, injury, or other dental issues.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: The procedure aims to restore functionality (chewing, speaking), improve oral aesthetics, and prevent the shifting of remaining natural teeth.

Indications

• Missing one or more teeth in the upper jaw.
• Patients seeking a more comfortable, less rigid alternative to traditional metal-based partial dentures.
• Patients with an adequate oral health baseline to support a removable dental appliance.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Typically, no special fasting or medication adjustments are required.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Dental examinations, x-rays, and molds of the mouth to create a custom fit denture.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Consultation: Thorough dental exam and discussion of patient medical history.
2. Mouth Preparation: Taking impressions (molds) of the upper jaw.
3. Fabrication: The dental lab constructs the flexible base denture using the impressions.
4. Fitting and Adjustment: Patient returns for fitting. Adjustments made for comfort and function.
   • Tools & Equipment: Dental trays for molds, flexible denture material (usually thermoplastic polymer), adjustment tools.
   • Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

• Takes a few weeks from initial consultation to final fitting.
• Individual fitting appointments last around 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

• Performed in a dental office setting.

Personnel

• Primary: Dentist or dental prosthodontist.
• Support Staff: Dental assistants, lab technicians.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Initial discomfort or soreness, minor adjustments needed.
• Rare Risks: Allergic reactions to the materials used, improper fit leading to sores or irritation.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Improved aesthetic appearance of the teeth, enhanced ability to chew and speak.
• Timeline for Realizing Benefits: Immediately after proper fitting and adjustment.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular oral hygiene practices, initial follow-up for adjustments.
• Expected Recovery Time: Minimal, with immediate function and comfort expected.
• Restrictions/Follow-Up: Regular dental check-ups recommended to ensure proper fit and function.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Traditional metal-based partial dentures, dental bridges, dental implants.
• Pros/Cons:
  • Traditional Dentures: More rigid, may be less comfortable but durable.
  • Dental Bridges/Implants: Permanent, may offer better stability but involve more invasive procedures and higher costs.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Minimal discomfort during mold-taking.
• After Procedure: Possible initial adjustment period with minor discomfort, generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Pain Management: Typically, no significant pain experienced; minor discomfort can be managed with routine painkillers if needed.
• Comfort Measures: Proper fitting and follow-up adjustments ensure optimum comfort.