All of the following are advantages of a flexible (thermoplastic) complete denture compared to a conventional acrylic denture EXCEPT one. Which is the EXCEPTION?

Correct answer: D. Low cost

• A. Flexible thermoplastic materials can adapt to undercuts and irregular bone anatomy, improving fit in patients with challenging ridge anatomy.
• B. Flexible dentures offer superior esthetics because the clasps are made of tooth-colored or gum-colored thermoplastic material, eliminating the visibility of metal clasps.
• C. Thermoplastic materials are lightweight compared to acrylic, which can improve patient comfort — especially for upper dentures.
• D. CORRECT. Flexible dentures are NOT low-cost — they are generally MORE EXPENSIVE than conventional acrylic dentures due to the thermoplastic material and specialized laboratory processing required. Low cost is a DISADVANTAGE, not an advantage, of flexible dentures.