Acrylic Teeth: A Complete Guide to Choosing and Caring for False Teeth Made from Acrylic Resin

 What are Acrylic Dentures?

Acrylic dentures, also known as false teeth or dental prosthetics, are artificial replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues made from a type of plastic called acrylic resin. Acrylic resin, which is commonly known by brand names like Lucite and Plexiglas, is a tough yet lightweight thermoplastic that can be molded and remolded while hardening. This makes it ideally suited for creating customized replacement teeth that fit the contours of a person's mouth.

The Process of Fabricating Acrylic Teeth

The process of fabricating Acrylic Teeth dentures usually involves taking an impression of the patient's mouth using alginate impression material. This impression is then used to create a plaster or stone model that precisely replicates the shape and alignment of the patient's gums and jawbones. Dental technicians then sculpt replacement teeth made of acrylic to match the patient's natural teeth in terms of size, shape, color and positioning on the gum ridge. The teeth are bonded to a clear acrylic base plate that forms the underlying structure and borders of the dentures. After curing and final adjustments by the dentist, the finished dentures are ready for insertion into the patient's mouth.

Advantages of Acrylic Dentures

Acrylic dentures offer several advantages over other denture materials:

- Lightweight and comfortable - Being made of plastic, acrylic dentures are significantly lighter than traditional dentures made of metals like cobalt-chrome. This makes them more comfortable to wear.

- Durable and long-lasting - Modern cross-linked and high-impact acrylic resins can withstand years of use when properly cared for. They are resistant to stains, cracks and fractures.

- Affordable - Acrylic dentures are the most economical option compared to more expensive denture materials like titanium or flexible dentures.

- Easy repairs - Minor repairs to acrylic dentures, like replacing a broken tooth, can be done easily and inexpensively by any denturist.

- Familiar look and feel - Acrylic provides a natural appearance and texture similar to regular teeth that many patients find less noticeable than alternate materials.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Acrylic Dentures

While acrylic dentures are the most commonly used type of dentures worldwide, not all acrylic dentures are alike. Here are some important factors patients should consider when choosing their new dentures:

Shade and translucency - Acrylic teeth come in a wide range of shades to match a person's existing tooth color. Options for shade include bleach white, off-white, creams and beiges. Translucency levels vary from opaque to life-like translucent resembling real teeth.

Tooth form - Teeth can have anatomical forms replicating natural tooth contours or simplified forms for a cheaper option. Anatomical forms tend to provide better chewing ability and aesthetics.

Base material - Standard heat-cured acrylic is inexpensive but more prone to stains and breakage over time. Treated acrylic bases and cross-linked acrylic provide improved resilience and durability.

Denture borders - “Extended” borders with gingival colored flanges mimic the appearance of real gums, while narrow tooth-only borders are less noticeable. Borders also vary in thickness.

Retention features - Dentures may be equipped with suction cups, precision attachments, or magnets to improve retention without the need for adhesive. This is useful for patients with poor retention.

Material strength - Acrylic is available in standard, hard, flexible and extra-flexible formulations depending on a person's jawbone density and chewing demands. Harder acrylic provides better durability.

Aesthetic enhancements - Finishing options like individualized gums, customized smile lines and stippled textures mimic the intricate appearance of natural oral tissues for a highly undetectable look.

Proper Care is Key for Maximum Acrylic Denture Lifespan

No matter how durable the material, all dentures—even those made from high-grade acrylic—require proper care to maintain their appearance, retention and lifespan. Here are some essential tips for caring for acrylic dentures:

- Brush them thoroughly after every meal to remove food debris and bacterial biofilms using a denture brush or toothbrush and non-abrasive cleanser.

- Soak them overnight at least once a week in a denture cleanser solution specifically made for acrylics. This helps eliminate odors and stains.

- Inspect them regularly for signs of wear, cracks or fractures and schedule relines and repairs with the dentist as needed.

- Avoid exposing dentures to extreme hot or cold temperatures which can damage the acrylic.

- Store them in water or a denture bath when not in use to prevent warping.

- Use a denture adhesive when indicated to enhance retention, especially short-term varieties when first learning to wear the new dentures.

- Inform the dentist about any sores, looseness or discomfort as soon as possible for necessary adjustments.

With the right material selection, precision crafting and diligent home care, acrylic dentures can perform like natural teeth and last many years, supporting a patient's self-confidence, nutrition and quality of life. Regular follow-ups with the dentist ensure ongoing comfort and functionality.

 

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