If you are opting for dentures to bridge the gap (figuratively and literally) left by missing teeth, then we recommend you to first learn about the materials used for dentures before going in for your surgery.
The type of denture you require for your teeth replacement depends upon your requirements and your budget. Read on to learn about the types of denture materials offered by denturists in Everett and Seattle.
Table of Contents
Acrylic Material for Partial Dentures
- Acrylic is a gum-like material that can be molded according the required shape and design as a substitute for natural teeth. Acrylic is quite popular with denturists and is the usual go-to material particularly for partial dentures, but can also be used for complete dentures.
Metal hooks are used for the adherence of acrylic dentures to your gums. The dentures adjust along with the nearby teeth and stay affixed.
Pros of Acrylic Dentures
- The advancement in technology has made acrylic dentures more durable and long-lasting. Hybrid acrylic materials have longer lives and greater adherence capability.
- Acrylic dentures weigh less than porcelain dentures. Porcelain is another commonly used material for dentures.
- Acrylic dentures cost less than porcelain dentures.
Cons of Acrylic Dentures
- While they have longer lives than porcelain dentures, they are prone to wear and tear are require replacement every five to eight years.
Metal Material for Dentures
The second type of commonly used dentures is metal dentures. As the name depicts, they are made of a mixture of two metals: cobalt and chromium. Both the base and the teeth are made of metal; however, the visible portion of the tooth has an enamel-colored tint to it while the gum is made of pink colored metal.
Metal dentures fix to the gum without much hassle and are supported by neighboring teeth.
Pros
- Metal dentures are slim and sturdy.
- They are long-lasting and do not disturb the natural alignment of remaining teeth.
Cons
- They can cost more than acrylic or plastic dentures so choose them only if you have the required budget.
Flexible Material for Dentures
Flexible materials such as nylon, polyester, polycarbonates and polypropylene are used for making dentures. Flexible material is the most advanced of all materials used for dentures and has the following benefits:
- Flexible dentures do not require additional metal hooks for keeping the denture in place. The dentures have inbuilt hooks which not only make the adjustment process hassle-free, but also make the dentures look more natural and aesthetically pleasant.
- Greater malleability of the flexible material makes the denture less prone to breakage and wear and tear.
- Flexible dentures offer more ergonomic value i.e. they make the day-to-day activities of eating and speaking easier.
- Flexible dentures do not cause allergic reactions, in general.
Now that you have got a good idea of the different types of denture materials used for the manufacture of dentures, you can decide for yourself, which material you prefer for the replacement of your teeth.
Choose wisely because there can be no compromise on dental care and health.
For consultations or bookings, call us at (206) 225-2882 for our Seattle Dentist Office and (425) 337-2400 for our Everett Dentist Office.