What is a flexible denture?

Flexible DentureWe are proud to offer you an exciting flexible partial denture with the ultimate in comfort, aesthetics and durability. The Vertex Thermosens system, exclusive to our Tweed Heads denture clinic in the Northern Rivers region, is a breakthrough for dental technology, offering stronger, more durable and cost effective Tweed Heads flexible partial dentures.

The Vertex Thermosens partial denture has no metal clasps, as the base and clasps are made as one from the same base material. Even better, you needn’t be concerned about this denture breaking if dropped. Not only is this the first denture to be monomer and acrylic free - perfect for those with sensitivity problems - it also has opaque, gum coloured aesthetics as acrylic dentures, but with fewer flaws.

At Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, flexible dentures are only available as partial dentures, not as full dentures. Like other partial dentures, flexible partial dentures are a removeable replacement for natural teeth that are missing due to accident, poor health or disease, but possessing different qualities than those of acrylic partial dentures. While known as ‘flexible dentures’, these dentures are not flexible in the same sense as being ‘bendable’. Rather, they are less rigid than dentures composed of conventional materials. Nor is ‘soft flexible denture’ an accurate description, but simply relative to the contrasting rigid, non-flexible metal or acrylic dentures which have a less soft feel to them. 

Designed to replace up to approximately 6 missing teeth, a flexible partial denture restores your smile, allowing you to eat and speak as you did before you lost your natural teeth. However, not all flexible dentures are equal, nor are they the answer to all patients’ partial denture needs.

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*Quotes will be provided to Australian residents only.

How much do flexible dentures cost?

Flexible denture prices are understandably very individual, as they are to each patient’s particular requirements. The flexible dentures price will depend on factors like the number of teeth you require on the denture and how complex your treatment is.

For a comprehensive quote, book into our Tweed Heads denture clinic for a no-obligation free consultation.

Flexible Partial Denture

From $1,550

Or $100 /fortnight*

*6 months interest free payment plan
with National Dental Plan

Are Vertex ThermoSens flexible partial dentures a good choice for you?

Dentures made with the ThermoSens technology are stronger, more flexible, longer lasting, and cost effective.

Further, the ThermoSens denture is aesthetically desirable for its range of colour choices and superior colour fastness. Whereas conventional flexible denture base materials incline towards colour inconsistency and translucency.

The non-porous nature of Vertex Thermosens denture base makes it stain resistant and a more hygienic choice for your new flexible partial dentures.

For those patients unable to accept dentures in the past because of concerns about allergic reactions or other sensitivity problems the Vertex ThermoSens technology is monomer and acrylic free, making it less hyperallergic. And if you need further convincing these dentures are a good choice for you, ThermoSens flexible partial dentures can be repaired.

How do flexible dentures compare?

View the range of partial dentures offered at our Tweed Heads denture clinic by clicking the button below. No need to feel overwhelmed by the range of choice.

Our prosthetists are heroes when it comes to sorting out your denture preferences and clinical needs. No longer do you have to put up with unsightly gaps in your smile. Take advantage of our free no-obligation consultation to discuss your partial denture options. See the table comparing acrylic partial dentures, Thermosens flexible partial dentures, Ezifit partial dentures, chrome cobalt partial dentures and finally Thermo-chrome hybrid partial dentures. Full chrome dentures are not classified as flexible dentures.

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A quick review of Thermosens denture technology features

  • Comfortable to wear
  • No monomers or acrylic so non allergenic
  • No metal clasps – almost invisible clasps created as part of the denture base
  • Lightweight in comparison – no volume shrinkage
  • 15 colours to choose from with exceptional colour stability
  • Humidity resistant
  • Strong and durable – virtually unbreakable base
  • Nonporous – more hygienic. Won’t absorb saliva or mouth bacteria
  • Easy to clean and stain resistant

Vertex, the creator of Thermosens technology, claims their product is superior to none for strength, comfort and aesthetics when it comes to flexible dentures. See the table for a comparison with another available flexible denture base option, Valplast. But like most things in life, no matter how good the flexible dentures are, they won’t suit everybody.

ThermoSens versus Valplast flexible dentures

Features

ThermoSens denture base

Valplast denture base

Monomer-free and acrylic free Yes No
Non-Porous Yes No
Range of gum colours Yes No
Superior colour stability Yes No
Can be relined and added to Yes No
Virtually unbreakable Yes Yes

Flexible partial dentures pros and cons

It can be difficult trying to negotiate the flexible dentures pros and cons. Approaching the decision from whether you are a suitable candidate or not, can be useful.

While there are plenty of pros for flexible dentures like price, colour range and stability, less porosity so more hygienic and stain resistant, the cons depend on your suitability.

If all of your teeth are missing on either the top or bottom jaw, then flexible partial dentures are not for you. In this case you will need a full denture. Northern Rivers Denture Clinic does not recommend using flexible denture base materials to make full dentures. The flexible advantage is greatly diminished in a full denture and other issues can arise. We advise considering a full acrylic denture. While it's possible to do a denture reline on some flexible dentures, this is only achieved with acrylic material which renders them inflexible. 

Our dental prosthetist is happy to explain your suitability and the flexible dentures pros and cons during your free, first consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Flexible dentures offer several significant advantages over traditional rigid dentures for many patients. The innovative nylon-based materials used in our Tweed Heads flexible partial dentures provide greater comfort by adapting naturally to the contours of your mouth while chewing and speaking. Without metal clasps, they're more aesthetically pleasing, with no visible metal when you smile. The flexible nature reduces pressure points and gum irritation that can sometimes occur with rigid dentures.

However, "better" depends on your specific dental situation. Traditional acrylic or metal dentures may be more suitable for full-mouth restorations or when maximum chewing strength is required. For partial tooth replacement with emphasis on comfort and aesthetics, flexible partial dentures often provide superior results. During your consultation at Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, our experienced prosthetists will assess your unique needs, considering factors like the number of missing teeth, jaw bone structure, and lifestyle requirements to determine the ideal solution for you.

With proper care and maintenance, Tweed Heads flexible partial dentures using the Vertex ThermoSens system typically last 3-5 years. While this lifespan is shorter than traditional acrylic dentures, many patients find the superior comfort and aesthetics of flexible dentures worth the trade-off.

Several factors influence longevity, including your daily care routine, changes in oral structure, and how frequently you wear your dentures. Regular professional check-ups at our clinic—we recommend every 6-12 months—allow us to identify and address minor issues before they affect fit or function. During these appointments, we can make adjustments to accommodate natural changes in your gum tissue and bone structure that occur over time.

Proper daily cleaning, avoiding exposure to high temperatures, and removing your flexible dentures during sleep can all contribute to maximising their functional lifespan. With optimal care and regular professional maintenance, some patients may extend the usable life of their ThermoSens flexible dentures toward the upper end of the typical range.

At Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, flexible partial dentures start from $1,550, representing excellent value considering their superior comfort, aesthetics, and durability. The exact cost varies based on several personalised factors, including the number of teeth requiring replacement, the complexity of your dental situation, any preparatory treatments needed, and specific customisation requests.

We believe in complete transparency regarding pricing. During your free initial consultation, we'll conduct a thorough assessment of your needs and provide a detailed, itemised quote with no hidden costs or surprises. Unlike some clinics that may add unexpected charges throughout treatment, our quoted price covers the entire process from consultation through to final fitting and initial follow-up adjustments.

Understanding that dental care is a significant investment, we offer flexible payment solutions to make Tweed Heads flexible partial dentures accessible to all patients. Our interest-free payment plan allows you to spread the cost over time, starting from just $100 per fortnight through National Dental Plan. We also accept payment through Afterpay, Humm, and ZipMoney, giving you various options to manage your dental expenses comfortably. For a precise quote tailored to your specific needs, we encourage you to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Most patients report that flexible dentures feel significantly more comfortable than rigid alternatives. The inherent flexibility of the Vertex ThermoSens material allows these dentures to adapt more naturally to the contours of your mouth during movement, speaking, and eating. Unlike rigid dentures that may create pressure points or cause gum irritation, flexible dentures distribute pressure more evenly across the gum tissue.

The lightweight nature of these prosthetics—approximately 30% lighter than traditional acrylic dentures—contributes substantially to comfort, reducing the sense of having a foreign object in your mouth. Additionally, the absence of metal components eliminates potential irritation from metal clasps against your gum tissue or natural teeth.

While there is typically a brief adjustment period of 1-3 weeks when you first begin wearing flexible partial dentures, many patients report feeling comfortable within just days. During your fitting appointments at our Tweed Heads clinic, we make precise adjustments to ensure your denture fits perfectly against your gum tissue and aligns properly with your remaining natural teeth, optimising both comfort and function.

Vertex ThermoSens technology represents the latest advancement in flexible partial denture materials, offering several distinct advantages over alternatives like Valplast or standard nylon-based options. The ThermoSens material is completely monomer and acrylic-free, significantly reducing allergy risks for sensitive patients. Its non-porous surface resists bacterial buildup and staining, making it more hygienic and easier to maintain. With exceptional dimensional stability, ThermoSens dentures maintain their precise fit over time without warping or changing shape. The ThermoSens manufacturing process allows for 15 different gum shade options, ensuring a more natural aesthetic match to your existing gum tissue.

Northern Rivers Denture Clinic is proud to be the exclusive provider of Vertex ThermoSens flexible partial dentures throughout the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast regions. Our centrally located clinic in Tweed Heads serves patients from across the entire region seeking high-quality, comfortable denture solutions.

If you're located in Tweed Heads South, Tweed Heads West, or Banora Point, our clinic is just minutes away, providing convenient access to premium flexible denture services. Residents from nearby suburbs including Terranora, Bilambil Heights, and Kingscliff also benefit from our specialised denture care without traveling far from home.

For patients living in the beautiful coastal communities of Cabarita, Casuarina, and Pottsville, we offer the only local access to the advanced Vertex ThermoSens technology. Residents of Murwillumbah and surrounding areas choose our clinic for its reputation for excellence in flexible denture solutions.

Our reach extends across the Queensland border, serving patients from Coolangatta, Bilinga, and Tugun who prefer our specialised expertise in flexible dentures. Many patients travel from Currumbin, Currumbin Waters, Palm Beach, and Elanora to access our exclusive denture technology and personalised care.

Even residents from further locations including Robina, Burleigh Waters, Burleigh Heads, Varsity Lakes, and throughout the Gold Coast make the journey to our Tweed Heads clinic, recognising that the superior comfort and aesthetics of our flexible partial dentures are worth traveling for. With our convenient location near the NSW/QLD border, we're accessible to patients throughout the entire region seeking the highest quality flexible denture solutions.

Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your flexible dentures and maintaining oral health. Follow these specialised care guidelines for Vertex ThermoSens dentures:

Daily Cleaning Routine:

  • Rinse after every meal to remove food particles
    Clean at least once daily using a soft denture brush (never use stiff-bristled brushes that could scratch the surface)
  • Use mild soap or non-abrasive denture cleaner specifically formulated for flexible materials
  • Clean over a water-filled basin or soft towel to prevent breakage if dropped

What to Avoid:

  • Never use bleach, alcohol-based cleaners, or abrasive toothpastes
  • Avoid soaking in hot water, which can potentially warp the material
  • Keep away from harsh chemicals that could damage the flexible material

Professional Maintenance:

  • Visit our Tweed Heads clinic every 12 months for professional ultrasonic cleaning
  • Have your denture professionally assessed annually for fit and condition
  • Seek immediate professional advice if you notice any changes in fit or condition

Proper care not only extends the lifespan of your flexible partial denture but also maintains its aesthetic qualities and helps prevent oral health issues that can arise from poor denture hygiene.

Flexible partial dentures restore much of your natural eating ability, though there is typically an adjustment period and certain considerations to keep in mind:

Initial Adjustment Period:

  • Start with soft foods cut into small pieces during your first week
  • Gradually introduce more varied textures as you become comfortable
  • Practice chewing on both sides of your mouth simultaneously to distribute pressure evenly

Foods That Work Well:

  • Most everyday foods present no problems once adjusted
  • Properly cooked meats, fruits, vegetables, and most of your favorite dishes

Foods That Require Caution:

  • Very hard items like nuts and hard candies (consider crushing or breaking into smaller pieces)
  • Sticky foods like caramels and chewy toffees that might dislodge the denture
  • Foods with small seeds that can get trapped beneath the denture

Our Tweed Heads flexible partial dentures using Vertex ThermoSens technology offer better chewing efficiency than many other flexible options, with their precise fit and stability allowing for more natural eating function. Most patients report that after a few weeks, they can enjoy nearly all their favorite foods with confidence and comfort.

If you experience any persistent discomfort while eating, contact our clinic for an adjustment appointment. Small refinements can often make a significant difference in your eating experience.

When considering tooth replacement options in Tweed Heads, it's helpful to understand how flexible partial dentures compare to alternatives:

Flexible Partial Dentures vs. Traditional Acrylic Partial Dentures:

  • Aesthetics: Flexible dentures offer superior natural appearance with no visible metal clasps
  • Comfort: Greater flexibility provides enhanced comfort and less gum irritation
    Weight: Approximately 30% lighter, feeling less bulky in the mouth
  • Durability: More resistant to breakage if dropped, but shorter overall lifespan (3-5 years vs. 5-7 years)
  • Cost: Starting from $1,550, typically somewhat higher than basic acrylic options

Flexible Partial Dentures vs. Chrome Cobalt (Metal) Partial Dentures:

  • Aesthetics: Significantly more natural-looking without metal framework
  • Initial Comfort: Most patients find flexible options more immediately comfortable
    Strength: Chrome offers superior chewing strength for posterior teeth
  • Longevity: Chrome typically lasts longer (7-10 years vs. 3-5 years)
  • Cost: Generally more affordable than chrome options

Flexible Partial Dentures vs. Dental Implants:

  • Invasiveness: Non-surgical option requiring no bone integration
  • Treatment Time: Complete in weeks rather than months
  • Maintenance: Removable for cleaning vs. permanent fixtures
  • Longevity: Temporary solution vs. potentially lifelong restoration
  • Cost: Significantly more affordable ($1,550+ vs. $5,000+ per tooth for implants)

Flexible Partial Dentures vs. Dental Bridges:

  • Tooth Conservation: No modification of adjacent teeth required
  • Accessibility: Easier to clean underneath than fixed bridges
  • Adaptability: Can be modified if additional teeth are lost
  • Lifespan: Shorter duration (3-5 years vs. 7-15 years for bridges)
  • Cost: Generally more economical, especially for multiple missing teeth

The ideal tooth replacement solution varies depending on your specific dental condition, lifestyle needs, and budget. During your consultation at Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, our experienced prosthetists will help you determine if flexible partial dentures are the right choice for your unique situation.

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Free 30-minute Consultation

We believe in informed decisions. That's why we offer free 30-minute consultations to all our patients, new and existing. During this no-pressure appointment, we'll discuss your denture needs and goals, provide a personalised treatment plan and clear cost estimate, with no obligation to proceed. We want you to feel comfortable and empowered.

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