Name of the Procedure:

Mandibular Partial Denture - Flexible Base (Including Any Clasps and Teeth) Common names: Flexible partial denture, flexible base lower denture Technical/medical term: Mandibular partial denture with a flexible base (D5226)

Summary

A mandibular partial denture with a flexible base is a dental appliance designed to replace missing teeth in the lower jaw. The base of this denture is made from a flexible material, making it more comfortable and adaptable to the patient's mouth compared to rigid dentures.

Purpose

This procedure addresses tooth loss in the lower jaw (mandible). The primary goals are to restore the function and aesthetics of the patient's smile, improve chewing ability, and prevent shifting of remaining teeth.

Indications

• Missing one or more teeth in the lower jaw.
• Inadequate bone support for implants.
• Patients needing more comfortable and less rigid dentures.
• Patients who prefer a less invasive alternative to dental implants.

Preparation

• A comprehensive dental examination and evaluation.
• Dental impressions and X-rays may be required.
• Patients should follow any specific instructions from their dentist, which might include adjustments to medication or oral hygiene practices.

Procedure Description

1. Dental Impressions: Dental impressions of the patient's lower jaw are taken to create a custom-fit denture.
2. Model Creation: A dental laboratory uses these impressions to create a mold of the patient's lower jaw.
3. Denture Fabrication: The flexible denture base is crafted, including any clasps, and teeth are attached to the base. This typically involves using thermoplastic materials.
4. Fitting and Adjustments: The dentist fits the denture in the patient's mouth and makes necessary adjustments for comfort and proper bite alignment.
5. Final Placement: Final adjustments are completed, and the patient receives their new flexible denture.

Tools/Equipment: Dental impression materials, thermoplastic materials for the base, dental tools for fitting and adjusting.

Anesthesia/Sedation: Usually not required, but local anesthesia may be used if extractions or minor adjustments are needed during the fitting process.

Duration

The entire process, from initial impressions to final placement, typically spans several appointments over a few weeks. Each fitting/adjustment session may take about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a dental office or clinic.

Personnel

• Dentist or prosthodontist
• Dental assistants
• Dental laboratory technicians (for the fabrication process)

Risks and Complications

• Common:
  • Initial discomfort and adjustment period.
  • Slight soreness or irritation in the gums.
• Rare:
  • Allergic reaction to the materials used.
  • Breakage or cracking of the flexible base.
  • Jaw or bite misalignment if the denture is improperly fitted.

Benefits

• Improved function and aesthetics.
• Enhanced comfort due to the flexible base.
• Preservation of remaining teeth alignment.
• Non-invasive compared to implants.
• Immediate improvement in chewing ability.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular cleaning of the denture and good oral hygiene.
• Expected Recovery Time: A few weeks for the mouth to fully adjust to the new denture.
• Restrictions: Avoiding hard or sticky foods initially. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to ensure proper fit and function.

Alternatives

• Fixed Dental Bridge:
  • Pros: Permanently fixed, no need for removal.
  • Cons: Requires alteration of adjacent teeth.
• Dental Implants:
  • Pros: Permanent and stable solution.
  • Cons: More invasive, requires adequate bone support.
• Traditional Rigid Dentures:
  • Pros: Established method, often less expensive.
  • Cons: Can be less comfortable than flexible base dentures.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Minimal discomfort during fittings. Local anesthesia only if extractions or substantial adjustments are needed.
• After the Procedure: Mild soreness as the mouth adjusts. Patients often report that the flexible base is more comfortable and natural-feeling than traditional rigid dentures. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.