Nobilium: History of flexible partials

As a result, the usage of flexible plastic partial dentures was limited. Another New York-based company introduced a product in the early 1960s called Flexite. It was similar to Valplast, but offered several varieties of materials.

As the ‘Hollywood Smile’ became a quest for dental patients in the 1970s and ’80s, dentists were forced to look for prosthetic solutions that were both esthetic and functional.

Flexible partial dentures were becoming an accepted treatment plan for some patients who demanded high esthetics and had healthy remaining dentition.

In 1999, DENTSPLY International introduced FRS, a flexible partial system based on the ‘Success’ injection system. One objective of this system was to address a common complaint among dental professionals using flexible partial denture materials: adjustments/polishing.

Valplast has a relatively low melting temperature, so when a clinician adjusts the material chairside, the heat of a bur causes the material to melt and form small balls on the surface.

These surface defects are difficult to remove, leaving users frustrated. The FRS material has a higher melting temperature, thus this problem was reduced. However, the higher melting temperature of FRS results in more potential for fracture as compared to Valplast.

While an acrylic complete denture is easily repaired with methylmethacrylate, with a nylon-based flexible partial it is very difficult, if not impossible, to make a permanent repair.

The growth of flexible partials is now in full swing.

The newest material on the market, introduced in 2008, is called FlexStar, from Nobilium in Albany, NY, USA. This material uses advancements in plastics technology that result in slightly higher melting temperatures as compared to Valplast.

These features result in a material that is easier to adjust and polish chairside. In addition, it retains flexibility in the mouth and is virtually unbreakable. There is a limit to the clinical indication for a flexible partial denture. Some patients with severe periodontic problems are not good candidates.

However, as long as ‘Hollywood’ is producing smiles, there will be a demand for esthetic and functional removable appliances.