There are multiple dental applications that can replace missing teeth. However, one of the most popular categories of teeth-replacement appliances is the denture. Dentures are removable appliances used to replace a group of missing teeth. Here are a few questions and answers about dentures:

What are the false teeth of dentures made of?

The false teeth of a denture are typically made of porcelain or acrylic resin.

Porcelain

Porcelain offers a natural tooth-like appearance and is quite strong, so porcelain dentures don't need to be replaced frequently. Still, porcelain is breakable, so special care should be taken not to drop dentures made of this material. Porcelain can also wear away natural teeth that it repeatedly comes in contact with during biting and chewing. Thus, it may not be the best material for partial dentures. 

Acrylic

Acrylic dentures are made of resin hybrids. Prosthetic teeth made of acrylic stick to the base of the dentures more securely than their porcelain counterparts and cost less. In addition, the acrylic resin weighs less than porcelain does, so it tends to be comfortable. 

What material is used for the base of a denture?

The teeth of a denture are attached to a base plate, which is usually made of resin or metal. 

Denture plates that are made of acrylic resin can be colored to make it difficult to discern the prosthetic appliance from the patient's natural gums. However, plates made from metal are less prone to break and may provide a better fit. 

What are types of dentures are available?

Regardless of the material used to make the dentures, different types of dentures are used in different instances. 

Full Dentures

When an entire palate of teeth is missing, full dentures are used. Conventional full dentures are held in place using adhesive.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures replace several missing teeth but not a full palate. They are best for instances in which the patient has some natural teeth remaining. 

Overdentures

An overdenture is a denture that includes connecting components on the underside of the appliance to help hold the dentures in place. The connectors grip remaining natural teeth or connect to dental implants to prevent the dentures from slipping out of position. 

Although overdentures are more stable than traditional dentures, they can still be removed for regular cleaning.

To learn more about dentures and how they can benefit you, contact Dentures by Kamloops Denture & Implant Centre Ltd. or a similar location.