Edentulism can impair chewing, affect bone health and undermine psychological confidence and general well-being. Among removable restoration options, Valplast® flexible dentures have drawn attention for combining function and aesthetics through a thermoplastic nylon material and a tissue-supported design.
Valplast® dentures are made from a durable, biocompatible thermoplastic nylon that has been used in clinical applications since the 1940s. Compared with conventional removable dentures built on metal frameworks, the system is associated with several practical differences.
- Comfort: The material is flexible and adapts to oral movement, reducing irritation of gingival tissue.
- Aesthetics: Because no metal clasps are required, the denture can blend with the color of surrounding gums and remain visually inconspicuous.
- Biocompatibility: The metal-free material avoids oral galvanism and the risk of metal allergy.
- Durability: The manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty against fracture of the denture base under normal use.
Successful use depends on careful treatment planning and standardized clinical handling. The denture is tissue-borne and does not require preparation of the teeth or periodontal tissues.
Before first insertion, the denture should be soaked in hot water for 30 to 60 seconds to bring it to body temperature and improve fit. Clasp tension can be adjusted after heating: if a clasp is too tight, it is bent outward; if too loose, it is bent inward. The material is then allowed to cool so that the shape is retained.
- Polishing: A medium-grit bullet silicone polisher is used for overall polishing, while a small pointed bur can refine clasp details.
Laboratory work requires accurate impressions and careful handling of the denture and model. For a rebase, a closed-mouth impression is taken to record the occlusal relationship, followed by an alginate impression; the denture and model are then sent to the laboratory together.
For adding teeth, an alginate impression is taken with the denture seated. Once full seating is confirmed, the model is poured immediately and sent for laboratory processing.
| Procedure | Key steps |
|---|---|
| Rebase | Take a closed-mouth impression to confirm the occlusal relationship, then take an alginate impression and send it with the model to the laboratory. |
| Add teeth | Take an alginate impression with the denture in place, confirm full seating, and immediately pour the model for laboratory submission. |
When the fit between the denture base and alveolar ridge declines, or when missing tooth positions need repair, a rebase or addition of teeth may be considered. Accurate impressions are essential, and the model and denture should not be separated during laboratory processing.
