Chloe Zhang
Plastic dentures are a common solution for people who have lost their teeth. They are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and cost-effective. While porcelain and metal dentures are also available, plastic dentures have become a popular choice due to advancements in material technology, which have resulted in multi-layered, opalescent synthetic teeth that look incredibly life-like. However, the latest trend on social media platforms like TikTok involves making homemade dentures from DIY plastics like Instamorph. These plastics melt into a gooey substance when heated and can be moulded into shape, hardening as they cool. While this may be a tempting option for those seeking a cheap alternative to traditional dentures, it is important to consult a dental professional for tooth replacement options to ensure safety and effectiveness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Acrylic resin or an advanced polymer derivative of acrylic |
| Colour | Pink for the gums, multi-shaded layers for the teeth |
| Pros | Functional, improve your appearance, practical, cost-effective, durable, rigid, precise fit, natural-looking |
| Cons | Fragile, can irritate the gums, can damage the gums, loose, bulky |
| Alternative | Metal dentures |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic dentures are generally the best option when there are no remaining teeth
- Metal dentures are worth considering if you still have some natural teeth
- Homemade plastic dentures made from Instamorph are a recent social media trend
- Plastic dentures are more fragile and prone to irritating gums
- Plastic dentures are cheaper and easier to fabricate than metal dentures
Plastic dentures are generally the best option when there are no remaining teeth
Plastic dentures are a popular choice for those who need to replace missing teeth. They are functional, improve one's appearance, and are a cost-effective solution.
When there are no remaining teeth, plastic dentures are generally the best option. They are designed to help people who don't have any teeth, and while other types of dentures might offer better quality, plastic dentures can still be a good choice. Metal dentures, for example, have improved stability due to metal clasps that clip onto remaining natural teeth. However, the metal can be visible when smiling or talking, which some patients find objectionable. Porcelain dentures also offer a natural appearance, but they are more prone to chipping and breaking, and they can wear away the supporting bone over time.
Plastic dentures, on the other hand, have come a long way in terms of aesthetics. Modern tooth-coloured acrylics with multi-shaded layers allow for a very natural-looking set of teeth. The base of the dentures is made with pink acrylic to mimic the gums, and this is moulded to conform to the individual's gums for a precise fit. The acrylic material is also durable and rigid, making it a practical choice.
The cost of plastic dentures can vary depending on location, with basic dentures starting at around $600 and the best quality ones reaching up to $2,000. It's worth noting that partial dentures tend to be more expensive due to their complexity. While plastic dentures offer a good solution, it's important to consult with dental professionals to determine the best option for your specific needs.
It is important to note that DIY plastic dentures promoted on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are not recommended. These dentures, made from heat-sensitive plastics like Instamorph beads, may seem like a cheap and accessible alternative, but they pose potential risks to your oral health. It is always best to seek professional advice and treatment for any dental procedures, including dentures.
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Metal dentures are worth considering if you still have some natural teeth
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They are typically made of plastic or metal. Plastic dentures are usually recommended for those who have no remaining natural teeth. However, if you still have some natural teeth, metal dentures are worth considering due to their numerous advantages over plastic alternatives.
Metal dentures provide improved stability compared to plastic dentures. Metal clasps fabricated into the framework of metal dentures clip onto the remaining natural teeth, preventing unwanted movement while eating. Metal dentures also offer superior support, preventing the denture from sinking further into your gums when you bite down. This allows for more effective and confident chewing.
Metal dentures can be designed with an open palate, enhancing temperature and taste perception. Additionally, metal dentures are thinner and less bulky than plastic dentures, providing a more comfortable and natural feel. Metal is a stronger material than plastic, allowing for a more durable and long-lasting denture.
While metal dentures offer these benefits, they may not be aesthetically preferred due to the colour of the metal. The metal clasps may be visible when smiling or talking, which may be undesirable for some individuals. Metal dentures are also more expensive than plastic dentures due to the higher cost of materials and the increased time and skill required for fabrication.
In summary, metal dentures offer improved stability, support, durability, and a more natural feel compared to plastic dentures. However, the visibility of metal clasps and the higher cost are considerations to take into account when deciding between the two options. It is always best to consult with a dental professional to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs.
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Homemade plastic dentures made from Instamorph are a recent social media trend
InstaMorph is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer known as Polycaprolactone (PCL). It is sold as small plastic beads that can be heated and moulded into any desired shape. When the plastic is submerged in hot water, it melts together into a gooey substance. This can then be shaped and moulded to form dentures. Once it has cooled, it sets hard.
The brand itself warns that InstaMorph is not safe for internal use. Despite this, many people are turning to this method as a way to fill in gaps or cover up chipped teeth. However, there are several dangers associated with homemade denture solutions. Firstly, there is a risk of choking if the dentures become loose. Additionally, these dentures can cause severe dental problems and create "food traps", which can be difficult to clean.
Another issue with InstaMorph dentures is that they can melt when exposed to hot temperatures. This means that drinking hot beverages or eating hot food could cause the dentures to warp or become misshapen. InstaMorph dentures are also prone to staining, which can discolour the teeth.
While DIY dentures may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is important to consult a dental professional for any tooth replacement needs. Properly fitted dentures are created by trained technicians who ensure a precise and safe fit. Metal partial dentures, for example, offer improved stability and chewing functionality compared to all-plastic dentures. Therefore, it is recommended to seek professional advice and avoid the potential hazards of homemade plastic dentures.
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Plastic dentures are more fragile and prone to irritating gums
Plastic dentures are made from acrylic resin or an advanced polymer derivative of acrylic. They are functional, improve your appearance, and are a practical and cost-effective means to deal with missing teeth. However, they are more fragile than dentures made from other materials and are susceptible to chipping or cracking if dropped or uncared for. They also wear down faster than natural teeth, making replacements necessary every five to seven years.
Plastic dentures can also irritate the gums. This can be caused by ill-fitting dentures, which can irritate the mouth, cause sore spots, and increase the risk of infections. Denture wearers may use adhesive pastes, powders, or pads to help dentures stay in place, but these can also cause irritation if the user is allergic to them. Even without adhesives, loose-fitting dentures can rub or press on areas of the gums they did not previously contact, abrading the sensitive gum tissues.
If you have a new denture replacing an old one, there may be more teeth on the replacement, or more pronounced gum ridges after the loss of bone. In this case, the denture will make contact with areas of the gum not placed under pressure before, causing irritation and perhaps some rubbing. It will take your gums some time to become accustomed to the new denture.
To relieve denture pain and discomfort, you can try home remedies such as saltwater mouthwashes, aloe vera gel, turmeric, a cold teabag, or clove oil. If your gum inflammation is a result of loose-fitting dentures or allergy-producing products, removing them until you can have the problem rectified is essential. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a topical mouth gel to soothe the inflamed gums.
It is important to consult a dental professional to figure out the best course of action to relieve denture pain and discomfort.
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Plastic dentures are cheaper and easier to fabricate than metal dentures
Dentures are prosthetic appliances that replace missing teeth. They come in various styles, including complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are necessary when all your natural teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Dentures are typically made from plastic, specifically acrylic resin, but can also be made from porcelain or metal.
Plastic dentures, also known as acrylic dentures, are generally cheaper and easier to fabricate than metal dentures. They are made from durable and rigid acrylic resin or an advanced polymer derivative of acrylic. The pink acrylic base is injection-moulded or milled with computer technology to conform to the patient's gums for a precise fit. Modern tooth-coloured acrylics with multi-shaded layers allow for a natural-looking denture. Plastic dentures are functional, improve the patient's appearance, and are a practical and cost-effective solution for missing teeth.
Metal dentures, on the other hand, consist of a metal framework with replacement teeth attached. Metal dentures are generally more durable than plastic dentures and are less prone to breaking or cracking. They also provide a more secure fit, as the metal clasps clip to the remaining natural teeth, preventing movement while eating. Metal dentures can be designed with an open palate, improving temperature and taste perception. Additionally, metal is a stronger material, allowing the denture to be thinner and less bulky.
The choice between plastic and metal dentures depends on the patient's needs, preferences, and budget. Plastic dentures may be preferred for their lower cost and natural appearance, while metal dentures offer improved stability and durability. It's important to consult with a dental professional to determine the best option for your specific case.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic dentures are false teeth made from acrylic resin or an advanced polymer derivative of acrylic. They are used when a person has lost a lot of their natural teeth or the remaining teeth are so bad that they need to be removed.
Melted plastic dentures refer to DIY dentures made from heat-sensitive plastics such as Instamorph beads. These beads melt together into a goo when submerged in hot water and can be moulded into shape. Once cooled, they set hard.
Homemade plastic dentures are not recommended as they can be dangerous. It is always better to see a dental professional for tooth replacements.
Metal dentures and porcelain dentures are alternatives to plastic dentures. Metal dentures are more durable and provide better stability and support than plastic dentures. However, they are more expensive and may be visible when smiling or talking. Porcelain dentures offer a more natural appearance but are more prone to chipping and can wear away the denture-supporting bone over time.
