Biocompatible Materials for Dentures

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Dentures restore oral function for millions of people around the globe. If you put something foreign in your body, it is essential to consider how it will affect you. That is where the word “biocompatible” comes into play. It is something our dentist in Foley, AL, keeps in mind before creating the perfect set of dentures for you.

What Does Biocompatible Mean?

Biocompatible is a fancy way of saying something won’t hurt living tissues. Bio refers to biological cells, and compatible means it is not toxic to those cells.

When you invest in dentures, you want them to last. For that to happen, the material used to make them needs to be sturdy and not do more damage to your mouth.

What Biocompatible Material Works for Dentures?

There are three components to dentures, and they must all be biocompatible for them to be safe. The current options to make the base and teeth include:

  • Acrylic resin — A material that mimics the natural gum tissue and enamel to make dentures safe and comfortable to wear.
  • Flexible resin — Similar to acrylic resin but made with thermoplastic material.
  • Porcelain – An old-school ceramic approach that isn’t used too much anymore.

There are pros and cons to each option, but they all have one thing in common—they are biocompatible. Your dentist in Foley, AL, will help you decide which choice is best for you.

The third component is the metal used to create the framework for partial dentures. The biocompatible options:

  • Chrome cobalt
  • Titanium
  • Gold alloys

Of the three, titanium is the most common.

Combining Materials for The Best Effect

Modern advancements in dentistry have provided hybrid answers to maximize the benefits. For example, 3D printers that offer same-day dentures might use high-impact acrylic. Even lab-engineered appliances can layer multiple materials when creating prosthetic teeth to get a more natural look.

If you have questions about dentures, contact our office today to make an appointment with your dentist in Foley, AL. We’ll set up a consultation to see what type of denture is right for you.