Dentists’ Preferences for Valplast versus Cobalt Chromium Removable Partial Dentures: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Derna and Al-Bayda, Libya

Hiatham Bentaher

doi:10.33214/frfb1628

Authors

Hiatham Bentaher Dental Prosthetics Department, College of Medical Technology, Derna, Libya. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33214/frfb1628

Keywords:

Removable partial dentures, Cobalt chromium, Valplast, Flexible dentures, Dentist preferences, Libya.

Abstract

Background: Removable partial dentures (RPDs) remain a standard treatment for partially edentulous patients, with cobalt chromium (Co-Cr) frameworks historically regarded as the gold standard due to their strength, stability, and durability. However, flexible thermoplastic alternatives such as Valplast have gained increasing popularity, particularly in contexts where affordability and aesthetics strongly influence treatment decisions. The study was designed to investigate the reasons behind practitioners’ preference for Valplast over cobalt chromium in two Libyan cities, addressing a gap in local evidence on material choice. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the attitudes and awareness of dentists and dental technicians in Derna and Al-Bayda regarding the advantages, disadvantages, indications, and contraindications of Valplast and cobalt chromium RPDs. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. A structured bilingual questionnaire containing 26 multiple-choice questions was distributed to 50 dentists and dental technicians, with 26 completed responses received (response rate 52%). The instrument explored participants’ previous experience, perceptions of clinical handling, material properties, fabrication difficulty, longevity, stability, and repairability. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: Flexible dentures were reported as widely used either alone (39%, n=10) or alongside cobalt chromium (46%, n=12), while no participant reported exclusive use of cobalt chromium. Ease of handling was strongly associated with flexible dentures (84%, n=22), and 77% (n=20) considered them less time consuming. Cost was a key factor, with 81% (n=21) regarding flexible dentures as less expensive. In contrast, cobalt chromium was overwhelmingly associated with longevity (96%, n=25) and stability (88%, n=23). Biocompatibility was also favoured for cobalt chromium (65%, n=17), while flexible dentures were recognised for superior retention (73%, n=19). Regarding fabrication, 85% (n=22) identified cobalt chromium as more difficult to produce, reflecting laboratory and technical challenges.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that dentists in Derna and Al-Bayda prefer Valplast dentures for affordability, aesthetics, and ease of use, while cobalt chromium remains valued for longevity, repairability, and clinical performance in complex anatomical cases. Clinical decision-making in Libya is influenced by both material properties and socio-economic considerations, underlining the importance of balanced training and resource provision to support evidence-based prosthodontic practice.

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