Ever wondered what your dentures are made of? Understanding the materials used in their creation can help you appreciate the technology and craftsmanship that goes into producing these essential dental appliances. This blog post from Brightly Dental will give you an insight into the world of dentures, their components, and the materials used to make them.
The base of the dentures, often referred to as the plate, is the part that resembles the gum tissue and holds the artificial teeth. It's usually made from a type of plastic called polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). PMMA is favored because it is easy to mold, durable, and closely matches the color of the gums for a natural appearance.
Some denture bases may also be made of metal, typically a chrome-cobalt alloy. Metal bases are more durable and thinner than plastic ones, providing a more comfortable fit. However, they are more expensive and not as visually appealing as their plastic counterparts.
Many dentures are made with a combination of metal and plastic for the best of both worlds – durability and comfort.
The artificial teeth attached to the denture base are typically made from plastic or porcelain. Plastic teeth are more commonly used because they are cheaper, lighter, and less likely to cause wear to any natural teeth that bite against them.
Porcelain teeth, on the other hand, have a reputation for looking more like natural teeth because of their translucent quality. However, they are heavier and can wear down natural teeth if not aligned correctly. The choice between plastic and porcelain teeth often depends on individual needs and the dentist's recommendation.
Partial dentures often have a metal framework to provide additional support. This framework is usually made from a lightweight, biocompatible metal alloy that can withstand the pressures of chewing and speaking.
The framework is carefully designed to distribute the forces evenly across the denture and the supporting teeth, reducing the risk of damage. The use of a metal framework also allows the denture to be thinner and more comfortable to wear.
Regardless of the materials used, the most important aspect of dentures is their customization. Dentures are carefully designed to match the individual's mouth perfectly, providing comfort and functionality.
Impressions of the patient's mouth are taken to ensure the dentures fit perfectly. The color, shape, and size of the teeth are also customized to match the patient's natural teeth as closely as possible, ensuring a natural look and feel.
With advances in dental technology, new materials are being explored for denture fabrication. For instance, flexible resins are now being used to create more comfortable and natural-looking denture bases.
Also, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology is being used to create precision-fit dentures with superior comfort and functionality. These advancements are making dentures more comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing than ever before.
If you're considering dentures or need advice on your existing ones, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Keith Luminais at Brightly Dental in Bogalusa, LA. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality dental care that meets your unique needs. Call us today at (985) 735-7653 to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a brighter smile.
If it’s your first time at our office, you can get to know the team here at Brightly Dental with our new patient special! It has everything you need to get your smile on the right track, including:
*New patients only. Charges may apply if treatment is required. Problem-focused exams, ADA codes D140, D220, D270.
