When some teeth are missing and you choose a removable denture, you may wonder between an acrylic base and a metal framework. Each type has its own advantages and drawbacks.
- Removable dentures come in two main forms: an acrylic base and a metal framework.
- A metal framework denture is usually thinner and sturdier, while an acrylic denture is thicker but easier to repair or add teeth to.
- Which suits you depends on the remaining teeth, the gums, the jawbone and your own needs.
- The dentist will examine you and advise a type of denture or another option such as a bridge or implant.
When some teeth are lost and you have not chosen an implant or a bridge, many people choose a removable denture. It usually comes in two main forms: an acrylic base and a metal framework. Which suits you depends on the condition of your remaining teeth, the gums, the jawbone and your own needs.
Acrylic base dentures
- Made entirely of acrylic, with a pink base that fits the gums and acrylic teeth fixed on it.
- Usually thicker, so they can feel bulkier at first.
- Easy to repair or to add teeth to if more teeth are lost later.
- Often used when many teeth are missing or as a temporary denture.
Metal framework dentures
- They have a metal framework inside, are thinner and usually sturdier.
- They usually rest on both the gums and the remaining teeth through clasps, so chewing feels firmer.
- The thin metal makes them feel less bulky in the mouth.
- Repairs and adding teeth are harder than with acrylic dentures.
What should you ask the dentist?
- Whether the remaining teeth are firm enough to support the clasps.
- Which teeth are missing, in the front or at the back, and how many.
- How long you expect to use it and whether you may need repairs or added teeth.
- How to clean and store each type, see how to care for a removable denture properly.
Compared with other options
A removable denture is not always the right choice for everyone. Depending on the situation, the dentist may advise a bridge or an implant. See removable denture or implant, which to choose and complete dentures for people who have lost all their teeth.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first. The dentist will examine you, assess your remaining teeth and gums and advise a suitable type of denture. For reference costs, see our price list, and note that cosmetic restorations are generally not covered by health insurance.
Frequently asked questions
How does a metal framework denture differ from an acrylic one?
A metal framework denture has metal inside, so it is thinner and sturdier and usually rests on the remaining teeth as well. An acrylic denture is made entirely of acrylic, usually thicker but easier to repair or add teeth to.
Which denture is more comfortable to wear?
A metal framework denture is usually thinner and so feels less bulky, but comfort also depends on how it is made and on your mouth. Discuss it with your dentist after an examination.
Should I choose a denture or an implant?
It depends on your teeth, jawbone and needs. The dentist will examine you and advise a suitable option, as no single choice suits everyone.