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What Are Dentures Made Of?

Whether it’s due to age, gum disease, or an unexpected accident, tooth loss is something that happens to a lot of people. The good news is that dentures are a great way to bring back your smile. Our Point Pleasant dentist breaks down everything from what dentures are made of to the different types, how they’re made, how long they last, and how to take care of them below!


What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable or permanent dental appliances that are designed to replace missing teeth. There are two main types: Full and partial. 

Full dentures are used when all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw are missing. These dentures fit snugly over the gums and are designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. If you still have some natural teeth, partial dentures can fill in the gaps. They’re usually attached to your remaining teeth for added stability. 


What Are Dentures Made Of?

Dentures are made from a combination of materials designed to be durable, comfortable, and natural-looking. The specific materials used can vary depending on the type of denture, but they generally include a base and artificial teeth.


Denture Base

The denture base, also called the plate, is usually made from acrylic resin, which is relatively affordable and designed to closely match the color of natural gums. Cobalt chrome is another option for partial dentures. This strong, durable metal allows for a thinner, more comfortable fit, though it doesn’t blend in as naturally as acrylic. 


Artificial Teeth

The artificial teeth in dentures are typically made from acrylic resin or porcelain. For comparison, acrylic teeth are lightweight and easy to color-match to your natural teeth, but they tend to wear down faster than porcelain. On the other hand, porcelain teeth are more durable and resistant to staining; however, they’re heavier and are more prone to chipping if you drop them. 


Types of Dentures

There are a few different types of dentures, each of which is made to fit a variety of needs and lifestyles. Removable dentures are the most common and can be either full or partial. Implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants that are placed in your jawbone. And finally, overdentures are a combination of the two. They snap onto dental implants, but can also be removed. 


How Are Dentures Made?

Getting dentures is a process that involves several dental visits. Here’s what you can typically expect: 

  1. Initial Consultation: At your first appointment, your dentist will discuss your denture options. They’ll also take impressions of your mouth to create a custom model for your dentures. 
  2. Fabrication: The impressions are sent to a dental lab; this can take several weeks. 
  3. Fittings and Adjustments: Once your dentures are ready, you’ll come back for a fitting. Your dentist will make sure everything lines up properly and make any necessary tweaks.   

How Long Do Dentures Last?

Dentures generally last about 5 to 10 years. That said, how long yours will last depends on the materials used, how well you take care of them, and your overall oral health. 

If your dentures start to feel uncomfortable, don’t quite fit right, or show visible signs of wear, it’s probably a good idea to check in with your dentist; they’ll let you know if a repair or replacement is needed. 


How to Care for Dentures

You should clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristle brush and a denture cleaner. We recommend avoiding regular toothpaste because it can be too harsh. When you’re not wearing your removable dentures, soak them in a denture solution overnight to keep them from drying out or warping. 

When it comes to food, try to avoid anything too hard or sticky, and cut your food into small pieces to help protect your investment.


Wondering If You’re a Candidate for Dentures? Contact Us

Are you thinking about getting dentures? Your first step is to talk with a dental professional. At Coastal Dental Group, our team can walk you through your options and make sure you know exactly what to expect. 

Contact us or call 732-714-1030 to schedule a consultation with our Point Pleasant dentist today!

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!