Partial dentures come in several materials and designs. This guide explains each type, how upper and lower partials differ, and how to choose.
By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026 · Part of our complete partial dentures guide
A gum-colored acrylic base with artificial teeth, often held with wire clasps. Acrylic partials are affordable, easy to adjust, and quick to make, but they’re thicker and can crack if dropped. Learn about flipper teeth or shop acrylic partials from $245.
Made from a thin, flexible, metal-free resin with gum-colored clasps. They’re lightweight and natural-looking but harder to adjust. Read our flexible dentures guide or shop flexible partials from $315.
A small, one-sided partial for one tooth or two adjacent teeth. Read our Nesbit guide or shop Nesbit partials for $260.
A thin metal framework with acrylic teeth and gums. Cast metal partials are strong and durable, often chosen for long-term use, and are typically made through a dental office. FixUrSmile does not currently offer cast metal partials.
Upper partials may include a thin section that covers part of the palate for support, depending on how many teeth are missing. Lower partials usually follow a horseshoe shape behind the lower front teeth to leave room for your tongue. Both are custom-made from impressions of your mouth. When you order from FixUrSmile, you choose upper, lower, or both.
| If you want… | Consider |
|---|---|
| The lowest price or a backup | Acrylic partial |
| No visible metal | Flexible partial |
| To replace 1 tooth or 2 teeth side by side | Nesbit partial |
| Maximum long-term strength | Cast metal (through a dentist) |
Compare FixUrSmile options side by side in our comparison guide, and see typical prices in our cost guide.
Related guides: partial dentures for front teeth · Nesbit vs. flipper
Many people find flexible partials the most comfortable because they’re thin and lightweight, but comfort depends on fit and your mouth.
Cast metal partials are generally the most durable. Flexible and acrylic partials can also last years with good care.
A small partial for one or two back teeth on one side is often called a Nesbit or unilateral partial.
Flexible, acrylic, and Nesbit, side by side. Made in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home, with licensed dentist approval and our Custom Fit Guarantee.
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