Modern partial dentures - part 2: a review of novel metal-free materials and innovations in polymers

New materials are continuously being developed and advanced for the provision of partial dentures. However, the rate at which they are developing makes it hard for the clinician to discern which would be worth adopting into their practice.This paper looks at some of those materials, including the earlier alternatives to conventional acrylic resins, polyamides and acetal resin, followed by a review of the newer novel polymers that are currently in use, including aryl-ketone-polymers and the polymer group polyaryletherketones.The newer polymers have many similarities, in both properties and aesthetics, such as increased elasticity that allows the dentures to engage deeper undercuts, while maintaining high strength. A significant benefit of the novel polymers is in their ability to fit into a digital workflow. Computer-aided design and manufacture confer a high degree of consistency, efficiency and accuracy in the prosthesis. The ability to use precise digital tools to create frameworks and clasps of accurate parameters limits the introduction of technical error that has the potential to be introduced in the construction of a conventional cobalt-chrome framework.The novel high-performance polymers show great promise. Research is needed on these materials investigating the effects on oral health, longevity and survival of the appliances, as well as studies looking at patient satisfaction and the impact on quality of life.