Non-metal clasp dentures: A literature review

Abstract

Removable partial dentures (RPDs) offer a practical solution for partial edentulism, with esthetics being a critical factor in their success. Traditional metal clasps, like cobalt-chromium and stainless steel, often compromise esthetics, leading to the use of Non-Metal Clasp Dentures (NMCDs) as a more esthetic alternative. This review explores the advantages and limitations of NMCDs, which provide flexibility, color compatibility, and biocompatibility but require more maintenance and may cause tissue trauma. Flexible dentures, such as those made from nylon, offer improved color stability and comfort over polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), but they exhibit lower mechanical properties and retention. This study reviews the characteristics of denture materials, indications, fabrication and maintenance of the denture discussing their advantages and limitations based on published research.