Restoration of a partially edentulous patient with combination partial dentures

Flexible partial removable dental prostheses (PRDP) provide superior aesthetics, durability, improved patient comfort due to softer surface and low elastic modulus, and require less time and expense for fabrication. However, when a flexible PRDP is used to replace several missing teeth, especially when no occlusal rests or vertical stops are present, rotation and sinking of the denture base and resorption of the residual ridge tend to occur. This may result in the concentration of excessive force in the resin clasp, along with clasp deformation or fracture, and compression of the marginal gingiva. In such situations, it is advisable to incorporate a metal framework and occlusal rests in the design of the flexible PRDP to achieve the optimal rigidity and support. This article describes a case restored with such a 'combination' prosthesis.