Let us ask you a question: when you visit your dentist to have new dentures, do you wonder what they are made of? Yes? If you are always on the curious mode about dentures, we will help you understand the various stages involved in detail.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are fixed or removable replacement for teeth. Tooth replacement becomes essential when the tooth and its roots have been severely damaged, and the tooth has been lost or removed.
What Are Dentures Made Of?
There are various materials that form the primary requirement in making dentures, depending on the type that you may require and importantly on the recommendations of your dentist.
Denture Base
The base of the denture mimics the look and color of the gum, and is primarily made of acrylic that's colored with threaded pigmentation designed to match the specific color of your gums. Since acrylic is prone to breaking, one must be careful when removing or putting in the dentures.
Denture Teeth
There are two types of denture teeth, porcelain and acrylic. The denture teeth are required to look as natural as possible, and porcelain acts as a good substitute when it comes to mimicking the appearance and look of tooth enamel. Porcelain is harder than acrylic, and therefore is more durable. However, the material is prone to chipping. When you sit on a dental chair, keep in mind to enquire more about the materials used so that your dentist can help you with determining the appropriate one for you.
Your dentist may also use high-quality denture acrylic teeth that appear very natural. Since they are a less brittle than porcelain teeth, they can be used effectively in synchrony with natural teeth, metal crowns or fillings. However, dentures acrylic teeth have poor abrasion resistance and therefore deterioration is common with this material.
It’s important to know that acrylic is softer than natural teeth, and requires a specialist cleaning routine to keep them in good condition. It's recommended that you use a gentle denture cleaner to clean the denture material.
Denture Frameworks
Your denture requires a framework to support them. For denture frameworks and metal clasps on partial dentures, dentists use chrome cobalt - an incredibly strong material that helps support the structure of the dentures and withstand pressure during chewing. Some other materials used are nickel chrome, gold and stainless steel.
Before you decide on wearing dentures, it's importantly to understand their strength and weakness, which could help in determining how long you expect them to last. The longevity of your dentures also depends on your everyday oral hygiene routine. Taking care of your natural gums to keep them healthy enough to wear dentures is essential to prolong the lifespan of your dentures.
Now, that you know what are dentures made of and why these materials are used, make sure you make an informed choice when you schedule an appointment with your dentist.
If you wish to know more on the dentures, contact us today and book a consultation so that we can work on providing you with the right dentures for a beautiful, healthy smile.
