Cast Metal Partial Denture: The Most Popular Partial Denture

A Cast Metal Partial Denture is a type of Removable Partial Denture made from cast metal, designed for cases where one or more teeth are missing but some natural teeth remain. The Cast Metal Partial Denture consists of three parts: the metal framework, the teeth, and the clasps. The metal framework is made from materials such as cobalt-chromium, nickel-chromium, or titanium. The teeth, which are attached to the metal framework, are made from acrylic or other materials. The clasps help anchor the denture to the remaining natural teeth, enhancing retention and preventing movement.

Comparison of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Cast Metal Partial Dentures vs. Acrylic/Flexible Partial Dentures

 Advantages

• Durability The metal framework is typically made from high-strength metals that can withstand pressure and are less likely to crack, break, or wear compared to Acrylic/Flexible.
• Stability The solid metal structure combined with clasps provides excellent support and stability, enhancing retention and reducing the risk of movement while speaking and chewing—an advantage that Acrylic or Flexible Partial Dentures cannot match.
• Thin and light design The metal structure allows Cast Metal Partial Dentures to be easily designed in a thinner, lighter, and less conspicuous size. Their design conforms closely to the gum line, making them comfortable, adaptable, and discreet on the palate.
• Long-lasting Cast Metal Partial Dentures typically have a longer lifespan compared to Acrylic or Flexible partial dentures. When used and maintained properly, their durability can last between 7 to 10 years, whereas Acrylic or Flexible Partial Dentures generally last 3 to 5 years.

Disadvantages

• Cost Effective Compared to the more affordable Acrylic or Flexible Partial Dentures, Cast Metal Partial Dentures are generally more expensive due to the higher material costs and the complex manufacturing process.
• Aesthetic Appeal Acrylic or Flexible Partial Dentures are made from plastic that matches the color of the gums and natural teeth, providing a natural appearance and achieving high aesthetics. This makes them an excellent choice, particularly for areas where appearance is crucial, such as the front teeth.
• Flexibility Not only does the production time for Acrylic or Flexible Partial Dentures tend to be shorter, but they can also be easily repaired and adjusted to add more teeth if the patient loses additional teeth in the future. In contrast, a cast metal partial denture would require redesigning the new Denture.

Indications and Contraindications for Cast Metal Partial Denture

 Indications

• Missing one or several teeth.
• Individuals who need a durable, long-lasting solution have high demands for stability.
• The remaining natural teeth are sufficient and healthy to provide support and anchorage.
• The periodontal (gum) condition of the remaining teeth is good.
• Trauma to the jaw bone unable to use other methods.

Contraindications

• Aesthetically not pleasant area (especially front teeth area).
• The remaining teeth are not able to retain the removable prosthesis (dentures).
• Poor oral hygiene and poor periodontal/gum health.
• Weak teeth in the arch and rampant caries.

What materials are used for a Cast Metal Partial Denture?

Currently, there are many different materials available on the market for fabricating Cast Metal Partial Dentures. Each type has its composition, purpose, fabrication time, and cost. The choice of material depends on the specific needs of the patient, budget, and technical requirements of each case. In general, there are 4 common types as follows:

Chrome Cobalt

Chrome Cobalt is the most commonly used traditional material for Cast Metal Partial Dentures. It offers high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and good biocompatibility. This material is used to fabricate cast metal through a process of casting, coating, and polishing. This process is time-consuming and unesthetic appearance of the clasps, mainly due to the metallic color but results in a high-quality, durable, and robust framework.

Titanium

Titanium is a newer material for Cast Metal Partial Dentures that is both highly durable and 400% lighter than cobalt-chromium, which helps reduce the feeling of heaviness and enhances patient comfort. Titanium is non-allergenic and biocompatible with the human body, making it an ideal material in dentistry. The process involves CAD/CAM technology, where a digital impression of the patient’s mouth creates a 3D model. However, titanium dentures are relatively expensive and may have a less aesthetic appearance due to metal clasps.

Peek (Polyetheretherketone)

This is a newer thermoplastic polymer material used for RPD frameworks. The material is biocompatible, lightweight, and has excellent mechanical properties. It is also highly aesthetic and easily modified. PEEK frameworks are fabricated using CAD/CAM technology, where a digital impression of the patient’s mouth is used to create a 3D model. It is relatively expensive compared to other materials and is also prone to staining from chemicals and other substances.

Acetal Resin

Acetal resin frameworks are also a popular choice for RPD fabrication. Acetal resin is a thermoplastic material that is biocompatible, lightweight, and easily modified. It is molded and shaped based on the models provided. Acetal resin is more prone to fracture than metal frameworks. It can also wear down over time, particularly if the patient has a habit of grinding their teeth or biting down on hard objects. Like PEEK, acetal resin can be challenging to adjust or modify once fabricated, making it difficult to achieve an ideal fit.

VTA Dental Lab manufactures frameworks in both milling and printing methods with high-quality materials such as titanium and peek. Especially with metal hypersensitivity sufferers, peek framework is the savior. This material is considered a great step forward in dentistry thanks to its properties of super sturdiness, superior biocompatibility, and relatively lightweight.