What Materials Are False Teeth Made Of?

False teeth, also called dentures, are designed to replace existing teeth. A person may need false teeth because of an accident, aging, aesthetics or a mouth disease. Whether partial or complete, dentures are designed to fit naturally in your mouth, not causing irritation or sores.

Acrylics

• False teeth are typically made from acrylic resin, a type of transparent plastic. The dentist will make a mold of your mouth to ensure the arches are in the correct places. The dentures will be made in a dental laboratory, which uses acrylic resin to form the teeth and colored powder to shade the teeth white and gums pink.

Porcelain Veneers

• Teeth can also be covered with a veneer --- a thin material placed over the tooth for aesthetics or to prevent further tooth damage. Veneers are typically made from porcelain, which provides a lifelike appearance. They can also incorporate a composite resin, which can contain plastic, glass or ceramics. The composite option will be cheaper than porcelain.

Denture Comfort

• Dentures are designed to rest against your gums without pain. After some time, they might slip and rub, causing tenderness, abrasions and general discomfort. Creams, adhesives and cushions are available over the counter to increase the comfort of dentures. These inexpensive products are available at any health store. Denture liners, a more expensive option to ease the pain, consist of an elastic liner that cushions the gums against the denture, restoring its nonslip characteristics.

Denture Care

• Clean your dentures every night with a denture-approved brush and paste. Do not use harsh cleansers. If you have a partial denture, remove it before brushing your natural teeth. Get a professional cleaning every six months. Keep your dentures in a safe place when not in your mouth.