Dentures That Are Porcelain Vs Acrylic: Which is the Best Choice for You?

Tooth loss can be embarrassing, uncomfortable and even traumatic. Tooth loss occurs as a result of many different factors. This includes poor dental hygiene, avoiding the dentist, tooth decay, gum disease and also accidents or trauma to the mouth. It can have a significant impact on all aspects of your life and it is important that you visit your dentist immediately as advances in dental technology mean that there are a range of solutions to address all requirements. 

Dentures

Dentures are dental prosthetics that are designed to be a long-term solution for replacing your natural teeth. Dentures are made of different materials, namely porcelain and acrylic. They can replace a single tooth, a few missing teeth, your upper or lower teeth or your complete set of teeth depending on your individual requirements. Conventional dentures are removable and can be taken out of the mouth and replaced as necessary.

Porcelain vs Acrylic

Although acrylic dentures have been more common in the past, porcelain dentures are becoming increasingly popular over the last two decades. If you are deciding whether dentures that are porcelain versus acrylic will be the most suitable for you, then read on to find out more about the advantages of each.

Price

Price is often the most important factor in choosing between dentures that are porcelain versus acrylic. Generally speaking, porcelain is more expensive. Patients who are suffering from early tooth loss or those with greater disposable income may prefer to pay more for porcelain dentures.

Durability

When weighing up the suitability of porcelain versus acrylic dentures, it’s important to consider the durability of both materials. Porcelain is much harder and stronger than acrylic which means porcelain dentures have greater durability. This means less wear and tear and greater longevity. The forces of biting, chewing and eating are absorbed by the dentures, placing less pressure on the jaw which can be a problem with other dental prosthetics. 

However, when weighing up dentures that are porcelain versus acrylic, acrylic has been a preferred material for decades as it is less prone to cracking or damage. Depending on your lifestyle and eating habits, your dentist will be able to help recommend whether porcelain or acrylic would be more suitable for you.

Bone Loss

Tooth loss has a direct impact on bone loss. It is important that you visit your dentist as soon as possible after losing a tooth to prevent unnecessary bone loss. For patients that are suffering with this, it’s important to discuss whether dentures that are porcelain versus acrylic would be more suitable for you. Unless you undergo a bone transplant, your jaw may not be able to support the weight of porcelain dentures. In this case, acrylic dentures may be most suitable for you as they are lightweight by comparison. For patients with a healthy jawbone, dentures that are porcelain or acrylic are both suitable options.

Maintenance and Dental Hygiene

Studies show that porcelain dentures are generally easier to clean. This is because they have a hard surface that reduces the amount of potential bacteria build-up, minimising the chance of developing dental health complications. Acrylic dentures have microscopic indentations which require more thorough cleaning to prevent bacteria and food particles from building up on the surface. Inadequate cleaning could result in a range of dental health complications including bad breath and gum disease.

Whether you opt for dentures that are porcelain or acrylic, you can soak them in a targeted cleaning solution to remove plaque, lingering food particles, bacteria and stains. Dentures should be brushed daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleanser. 

Aesthetics

When comparing dentures and weighing up porcelain versus acrylic, the general opinion is that porcelain dentures are more aesthetically pleasing. This is because porcelain dentures are a form of ceramic, which is most similar to natural teeth. It can closely mimic the translucency and colour variations of teeth, creating a natural appearance. This is ideal for patients who have suffered from early tooth loss as well as older patients who are looking to boost their self-confidence and self-esteem. While acrylic dentures successfully replicate the shape and size of natural teeth very well, porcelain often still takes the lead on those looking to undergo a smile makeover with the most natural look and feel.

Speak to your dentist and discuss your individual dental requirements as well as what you are looking for from your dental prosthetics to determine whether dentures that are porcelain versus acrylic are the most suitable for you.