Acrylic Partial Dentures: Pros, Cons, Cost, and Care

Acrylic partials are one of the most affordable and adjustable ways to replace missing teeth. Here’s how they compare to flexible and metal options.

By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026 · Part of our complete partial dentures guide

What Is an Acrylic Partial Denture?

An acrylic partial denture is a removable appliance with a rigid, gum-colored acrylic base that holds one or more artificial teeth. Most use small wire clasps that hook around nearby natural teeth to keep the partial in place. A small acrylic partial that replaces one or a few teeth is often called a flipper tooth.

Acrylic partial dentures: custom acrylic partial denture made in the FixUrSmile US dental lab

Acrylic Partial Pros and Cons

Pros

Usually the lowest-cost partial denture
Easy to adjust, reline, or repair
Teeth can often be added later if you lose another tooth
No surgery or drilling of nearby teeth

Cons

Thicker and more rigid than flexible partials
Wire clasps may show when you smile
Can crack if dropped
Often considered a shorter-term option than cast metal

Acrylic vs. Flexible vs. Metal Partials

	Acrylic	Flexible	Cast metal
Base	Rigid pink acrylic	Thin, bendable resin	Metal framework with acrylic
Clasps	Wire	Gum-colored, no metal	Metal
Adjustable?	Yes, easily	Limited	Moderately
Typical dental office cost*	$300–$500 (flipper)	$900–$2,000	$650–$2,500
FixUrSmile price	$245 (1–3 teeth), $295 (4–6)	$315 (1–3 teeth), $399 (up to 6)	Not offered

*Ranges reported by Guardian Life. Actual prices vary.

Want help choosing? See which partial denture is right for me.

How Much Does an Acrylic Partial Cost?

At a dental office, a small acrylic partial (flipper) typically costs about $300 to $500, according to Guardian Life, and larger acrylic partials cost more. FixUrSmile’s custom acrylic partial is $245 for 1–3 teeth and $295 for 4–6 teeth, including the impression kit and free return shipping. More detail: partial dentures cost guide.

How Long Do Acrylic Partials Last?

With good care, acrylic partials often last several years. Fit can change over time as gums and bone reshape, which is one reason acrylic’s easy adjustability is useful. Replace or reline your partial if it cracks, rocks, or causes sore spots.

Caring for an Acrylic Partial

Brush it daily with a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner.
Soak it overnight in water or a denture solution so it doesn’t dry out.
Clean over a folded towel or a sink of water in case you drop it.
Handle wire clasps gently so they don’t bend.

Full guide: how to clean partial dentures.

Acrylic Partial Dentures: Frequently Asked Questions

Are acrylic partial dentures good?

They’re a solid, affordable choice for many people, especially if you want something easy to adjust or add teeth to later. People who want no visible metal often prefer a flexible partial instead.

Is an acrylic partial the same as a flipper?

A flipper is a small acrylic partial, usually replacing one to a few teeth. Larger acrylic partials work the same way but replace more teeth.

Can acrylic partials be repaired?

Yes. Acrylic is one of the easiest denture materials to repair, reline, or add teeth to.

How much is an acrylic partial denture?

Dental offices typically charge about $300 to $500 for a small acrylic partial. FixUrSmile acrylic partials are $245 for 1–3 teeth and $295 for 4–6 teeth.

This guide is for general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist. If you have pain, swelling, loose teeth, or other oral health concerns, please see a dental professional.

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