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What Materials Are Dentures Made From?

Dentures are removable or implanted false teeth that replace missing teeth usually lost to diseased gums or tooth decay. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, about one in four older adults have lost all of their teeth. Dentures come in two types: full set or partial. Dentists use acrylic resins, alloys and porcelain to construct dentures for a comfortable fit and more natural-looking smile.

  1. Acrylic Resins

    • Most fabricated teeth are constructed from acrylic resins that are strong and durable plastics. Different grades of acrylic are available for natural-looking dentures. High quality acrylic resins are more expensive and can stand up to five or more years of wear. Plastic tooth patterns can imitate the exact shape and size of the original tooth and can offer a more uniform look in a partial denture that inserts next to a natural tooth. The base, or pink gum-like part of a denture, is also manufactured from an acrylic material.

    Metal Alloys

    • Nobilium and chromium are metal alloys commonly used to frame artificial teeth within the denture mount that stabilizes the teeth. A metal mounting that is not sealed properly within the acrylic base can leave a metallic taste in the wearer's mouth.

    Porcelain

    • False teeth made from porcelain are more commonly used with a full set denture and not a partial denture where natural teeth may suffer damage against the hard porcelain finish. Porcelain is a very firm material that does not wear away quickly, but can also chip easily and may cause a clicking sound when the wearer is chewing.

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