What’s the difference between porcelain and acrylic denture teeth? | The Denture & Implant Clinic (2024)

These are generally the two different types of denture teeth we can use when making dentures – either porcelain or acrylic.

The advantages of acrylic are:

  • Good appearance
  • Bond to denture base so the teeth stay on the denture for longer and they don’t debond so easily
  • A good range of teeth available in difference shapes, sizes, and colours
  • Easy to repair

The biggest disadvantage of acrylic denture teeth is the wear resistance is not as good as porcelain teeth. After many years (5 years plus), they begin to wear and this can be considerably noticeable after wearing them for 8 years plus. There are new hybrid acrylic teeth available nowadays that have very good wear resistance, and they tend to stand up well up to 8 years plus. The amount of wear will depend on how much you grind, how strong your bite is, and if the denture teeth are opposing natural teeth, denture teeth, crowns, bridges, or if implants are involved.

The advantages of porcelain teeth are that they can look better than acrylic teeth. If you have crowns and bridges next to your missing teeth – if you make the adjacent denture teeth out of the same material (i.e. porcelain), the teeth will match a lot better.

The three biggest disadvantages of porcelain teeth are that they tend to debond from the denture base a lot more easily than acrylic teeth, they make a clicking noise when you eat, and they are a lot more expensive. For those reasons, most dentists prefer to use acrylic teeth on dentures.

If you have any questions about dentures and denture teeth give our team at The Denture & Implant Clinic a call and we will be happy to have a chat with you.

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What’s the difference between porcelain and acrylic denture teeth? | The Denture & Implant Clinic (2024)

FAQs

What’s the difference between porcelain and acrylic denture teeth? | The Denture & Implant Clinic? ›

The three biggest disadvantages of porcelain teeth are that they tend to debond from the denture base a lot more easily than acrylic teeth, they make a clicking noise when you eat, and they are a lot more expensive. For those reasons, most dentists prefer to use acrylic teeth on dentures.

What's better, porcelain or acrylic dentures? ›

Porcelain dentures, though initially more costly, may offer better value over time due to their longevity and lower maintenance costs compared to acrylic options.

What is one advantage of using acrylic teeth instead of porcelain teeth and a partial denture? ›

The Rise of Acrylic Denture Teeth

Nowadays, acrylic can achieve the same cosmetic authenticity as porcelain without the potential for jaw strain, bone loss, and tooth destruction.

What is the disadvantage of acrylic dentures? ›

Acrylic dentures look immaculately natural but are more affordable than premium porcelain dentures. But, the downside of acrylic dentures is that they wear down faster and have to be replaced every five years. They are also heavier than porcelain or other denture types.

Which is more brittle acrylic or porcelain? ›

Acrylic is generally a much more durable material when compared to porcelain. Although porcelain tubs have a much harder surface and are more resistant to scratches when compared to acrylic, the harder surface is much more susceptible to cracks and chipping from heavy impacts.

What is the disadvantage of porcelain dentures? ›

The three biggest disadvantages of porcelain teeth are that they tend to debond from the denture base a lot more easily than acrylic teeth, they make a clicking noise when you eat, and they are a lot more expensive. For those reasons, most dentists prefer to use acrylic teeth on dentures.

What type of dentures are the best? ›

If you are looking for a more stable and secure option, implant-supported dentures or overdentures may be the right choice. You also have to consider budget, as some types of dentures may be more expensive than others. Ultimately, the best type of dentures for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

What is the newest type of denture? ›

Implant-supported dentures represent the latest in denture technology, combining the practical aspect of dentures with the solid foundation of implant dentistry.

What type of dentures are most natural looking? ›

Porcelain: Known for its durability and natural-looking appearance, porcelain is often chosen for its similarity to tooth enamel. Composite Materials: These balance strength and aesthetics, resisting wear and staining while providing a lifelike appearance.

Do acrylic dentures have clasps? ›

Clasps. Wrought clasps are routinely used for partial acrylic dentures as opposed to cast clasps due to their malleability, are of uniform thickness and have a round cross section.

How much are acrylic dentures? ›

NHS dentures are usually made from solid acrylic and can be bulkier and less comfortable than some private options. If you get dentures privately, the costs vary, usually beginning at £355 for partials. Complete dentures will cost around £500-700 in the lower end of the spectrum.

Why do dentists not like dentures? ›

The main downside to dentures is that they can be uncomfortable and interfere with speech and eating. They also don't prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to changes in facial appearance over time.

What is the point of acrylic dentures? ›

Acrylic is a type of plastic material that can be used in the creation of dentures. This type of material is great for dentures as it is moldable and can adapt to the changes in your mouth over time. This is most commonly used for complete and partial dentures.

Are porcelain dentures still made? ›

Dentures are composed of many different materials that include composite resin, porcelain, acrylic resin, and acrylic. Well, acrylic and porcelain are the most common materials which are used in an ample amount by dentists for making custom denture teeth.

How can you tell the difference between acrylic and porcelain teeth? ›

As well, patients often relate that porcelain teeth are “noisy,” or that they can hear clicking sounds when they eat. These sounds are the result of the porcelain teeth coming into contact with each other while chewing. In comparison, acrylic dentures are quieter and feel more similar to natural teeth when eating.

What dentures look most natural? ›

In addition, implant-supported dentures are long-lasting and appear the most natural because you receive custom-created porcelain dental crowns to replace missing teeth. Snap-in Dentures: These dentures are a practical choice for stability. They are held in place by implants or anchors on your existing teeth.

What are the most comfortable dentures made? ›

Many people agree flexible dentures are the most comfortable because they hug the contours and grooves of the gums without brushing or irritating soft tissues. Flexible dentures are thin, pliable, and lightweight, so they're not nearly as bulky or clunky as traditional dentures.

When did they stop making porcelain dentures? ›

Porcelain remained a constant part of denture fabrication well into the 1970s and was even used by some in the 1990s and 2000s.

Which dentures last the longest? ›

A chrome cobalt denture overall has a longer lifespan than an acrylic denture lasting between 5 and 10 years with good care and regular maintenance. The chrome-cobalt denture's metal frame, on the other hand, can endure up to 20 years assuming it still fits.

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