The teeth that make up a denture are usually formed from a choice of three material types: acrylic, chrome, or porcelain.
Porcelain was traditionally the preferred material for denture teeth as it offers a more natural look, as well as being stronger and more durable than standard plastic. Porcelain is rarely used nowadays thanks to breakthroughs of strength and aesthetics of acrylic. One of the advantages of porcelain is that all the teeth are handmade so shapes and colour can be matched highly accurately with natural teeth within the individual mouth. Plus, porcelain teeth feel very similar to natural teeth and therefore, they are simpler to adapt to compared with other denture teeth materials. Moreover, the heating procedure that is utilised to form porcelain denture teeth causes the dentures to become considerably tougher, making them longer lasting.
However, porcelain dentures can have some disadvantages, this includes the fact they are breakable when they fall onto a hard surface or floor. They can also wear down natural teeth when bitten against them. This is not an issue in full denture sets but can be an issue in partial denture sets.
In recent times, most denture teeth are formed from acrylic, with an increase in the use of nylon and metal also. This is due to acrylic adhering very securely to the base of dentures, and the fact it is easier to adjust to achieve the proper occlusion, in comparison to more rigid porcelain teeth. Acrylic is also considerably cheaper than porcelain and is also much lighter.
However, acrylic denture teeth do have some disadvantages, including the fact that acrylic teeth wear down at a quicker rate than porcelain teeth. This can lead to changes in the way the teeth make contact with one another. This can also result in acrylic denture teeth necessitating more frequent replacement, potentially every 5 to 8 years.
What materials are used for a Denture’s framework?
Permanent dentures also require a framework to support them, and this may be referred to as the plate. The plate may be formed from acrylic, thermoplastic polymer, Or cobalt chrome metal. The process to create the framework begins with the dentist creating an impression of the gums and forming a mould. This is then utilised as the basis of a wax model, and the denture teeth are added to this. The model must be tested within the individual’s mouth to ensure it is of suitable size and colour, and for the formation of a plate which fits comfortably within the mouth.
An acrylic plate is compatible with dentures that necessitate an artificial gumline as the material can be coloured to replicate the individuals’ natural gums. However, using metal plates, does have the benefit of a lower risk of potentially breaking, increased strength and a better fit. Subsequently, metal is ideal for partial plates, which are fully concealed behind natural teeth.
Our dedicated denture clinic boasts a laboratory on site and our trusted dental technicians love nothing more than discussing their specialism. If you need to talk dentures – you know who to call!
