Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth, designed to restore your smile, improve your ability to chew, and even support the structure of your face. There are many different kinds of dentures available, and they’re made from different materials.
The materials used in dentures impact their comfort, how long they last, and how natural they look. Choosing the right material is key to feeling happy with your dentures. So, what are dentures made of, exactly?
We’ll cover the materials used for the base of the denture, the artificial teeth themselves, and even some of the options used for implant-supported dentures.
The Denture Base
The base of a denture, which sits against your gums, can be made of several different materials.
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)
Acrylic resin, also known as PMMA, is the material most often used to make the base of a denture. It’s a popular choice because it’s affordable and easy to work with. Plus, it can be colored to closely resemble the color of your gum tissue.
PMMA is relatively inexpensive, easy to repair, biocompatible, and attractive. One downside is that it’s prone to fracture and staining over time, and some people may have an allergic reaction to it.
Polyamide Resin
If you have sensitive gums, your dentist may suggest a flexible denture made of polyamide resin. Flexible dentures tend to be more comfortable and less likely to cause denture sores.
On the other hand, they can be harder to repair or reline than PMMA dentures, and they tend to be more expensive.
Metal Frameworks
Partial dentures sometimes have a metal framework for strength and stability.
Cobalt-chromium and titanium alloys are two common metals used in denture frameworks because they’re strong and biocompatible. Metal frameworks are durable and resistant to fracture, and they can improve the fit and support of partial dentures.
What are the artificial teeth made of?
Denture teeth are usually made of one of two materials: acrylic resin or porcelain.
Acrylic resin
Acrylic resin is a type of plastic that’s widely used to create denture teeth because it’s less expensive and easier to adjust than porcelain. Acrylic teeth bond well to acrylic denture bases and are less abrasive to any natural teeth you have in your mouth.
On the downside, acrylic wears down faster and is more prone to staining and discoloration than porcelain.
Porcelain
Porcelain teeth can offer a more natural look and are more durable than acrylic. They’re highly resistant to wear and staining and can be crafted to look remarkably like natural teeth.
However, porcelain can be hard on any natural teeth you have, and they’re more prone to chipping and fracture. Porcelain is also harder to adjust and repair.
What are implant-supported dentures made of?
Implant-supported dentures attach to dental implants for a more secure fit. Think of them like regular dentures, but snapped onto posts.
The implants themselves are usually made of titanium, which your body usually accepts well. Zirconia is another option for the part that connects the implant to the denture (called the abutment).
Implant-supported dentures are more stable than traditional dentures. They can improve your chewing and speech, and they may even help keep your jawbone from shrinking. The downsides? They cost more, and you’ll need surgery to put the implants in.
The Bottom Line
Dentures can be made from acrylic resin, porcelain, metal, or a combination of these materials. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, appearance, and durability.
If you’re considering dentures, it’s important to talk with your dentist about which material is best for you. Your dentist can assess your oral health, discuss your preferences, and recommend the most suitable option.
No matter which type of dentures you choose, proper care is essential for keeping them clean and functional. With regular cleaning and check-ups, dentures can improve your quality of life, restore your ability to eat and speak comfortably, and give you a confident smile.