Flexible dentures are considered a more comfortable, practical alternative to hard dentures. Hard dentures can cause discomfort, especially as the shape of the gums changes with age. Flexible dentures combine prosthetic teeth with a soft, nylon base that is capable of conforming to the shape of the gums, even as they change with time. They are considered more durable and capable of offering greater chewing capability. They are typically more discreet, more hygienic, and faster to make than hard dentures.

Hard, traditional dentures are often molded from acrylic, which does not generally conform to the shape of the mouth. Acrylic dentures are known for rubbing against the gums and causing pain and discomfort. They often require adhesives to hold them in place.

Flexible dentures are designed to adhere to the shape of the jawbone. Flexible dentures do not require any adhesive or other devices to fasten them to the gums. This is why they are generally a tighter, more comfortably fitting dental appliance than hard dentures. Because flexible dentures generally fit better than hard dentures without causing discomfort, they are believed to give dental patients the ability to chew even difficult foods, like apples.

Flexible dentures are considered quite durable. The prosthetic teeth embedded in the dentures may crack easily. The flexible nylon base of flexible dentures, however, is capable of withstanding rough handling.

Flexible dentures are made from a durable, translucent nylon. Prosthetic teeth are embedded in the dentures. Because the nylon base is translucent, the dentures blend in with the natural color of the gums and are considered more discreet than traditional dentures. Prosthetic teeth are usually designed to match the dental patient's aesthetic choices.

Unlike many hard dentures, flexible dentures are non-porous. Flexible dentures do not typically encourage the growth of bacteria. They are therefore considered more hygienic than hard dentures.

Flexible dentures can be easier to make than their hard, acrylic counterparts. When acrylic dentures are manufactured, multiple adjustments to the fit are generally needed. Dentures made with a flexible nylon base are often easier to fit and therefore easier to manufacture. Dental patients may find that dentures made with a flexible base are fitted and manufactured much more quickly than traditional dentures.