Acrylic vs Metal Partial Dentures: What You Need to Know

Are you looking for new teeth? Partial dentures can help! Both acrylic and metal types work well, but they are different. This guide will show you what makes each one special.

What Are Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are fake teeth that fill in gaps when you are missing some teeth. They help you:

• Eat food better
• Smile more
• Talk clearly
• Keep other teeth in place

These dental prosthetics can be made from different stuff. The two main types are acrylic and metal. Let’s see how they are different!

Acrylic Partial Dentures

Acrylic partials are made from a pink plastic material called polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). This is the same stuff used in many dental appliances.

Good Things About Acrylic Partials

• Cost less money – Most are $300-$800
• Look nice – The pink base matches your gums
• No metal showing – Good for front teeth
• Easy to fix – Can add more teeth if needed
• Can be changed – Good for mouths that are still healing

Not-So-Good Things About Acrylic Partials

• Break easier – May crack if dropped
• Wear out faster – Last about 3-5 years
• Feel bigger in your mouth
• Can cause gum irritation
• May need more denture adhesives

“Acrylic dentures are a good choice for people who need a short-term fix or are on a tight budget.”

Metal Partial Dentures

Metal partials have a strong frame made from cobalt-chromium alloy or other metals. They are also called cast metal partials.

Good Things About Metal Partials

• Last longer – Often 10+ years with good care
• Stronger when you chew
• Feel smaller in your mouth
• Better fit – Less movement when eating
• Protect your real teeth better
• Less likely to cause bone resorption

Not-So-Good Things About Metal Partials

• Cost more money – Usually $800-$2,000+
• Have visible metal clasps
• Some people may have allergic reactions (rare)
• Harder to adjust if your mouth changes
• More dental checkups needed

You can see more about metal dentures here.

Big Differences Table

Real People’s Experience

When we look at what people say about their dentures, we find:

• 65% of people like their acrylic partials at first
• 82% of people like their metal partials after using them a long time

This tells us that metal framework dentures may be better if you plan to use them for many years.

When to Choose Acrylic Partials

You might like acrylic dentures better if:

• You need to save money right now
• You just had teeth pulled and need temporary dentures
• Your mouth is still changing
• You care a lot about how they look
• You want to try dentures before spending more money

Many seniors choose acrylic for their first set of removable partial dentures.

When to Choose Metal Partials

Metal partial dentures might be better if:

• You want them to last a long time
• You need strong teeth for chewing
• You want a better fit
• You don’t mind spending more money now to save later
• Your dental insurance covers part of the cost

People who need their dentures to last often pick metal. You can learn about partial dentures with clasps here.

What About Flexible Partials?

There is a third option called flexible partial dentures or Valplast®. These are made from a bendable plastic that looks nice and feels good.

Flexible Partial Benefits:

• No metal clasps
• Very comfy
• Hard to break
• Look natural
• Good for people with metal allergies

If you want to know more, check out flexible partial dentures for front teeth.

Taking Care of Your Partial Dentures

No matter which type you pick, good oral hygiene is very important! Here’s how to keep your partials clean:

1. Take them out and rinse after eating
2. Brush them gently each day with a soft brush
3. Soak them at night in denture cleaning solutions
4. Keep them in water when not in your mouth
5. Don’t use hot water (can warp acrylic)
6. Visit your dental hygienist regularly

Good care helps stop denture-related infections and makes your partials last longer.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of partial dentures can be a big factor in your choice. Here’s what affects the price:

• Material used (metal costs more)
• How many teeth you need
• Where you live
• Your dentist’s skill
• If you need other work first

Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of partial dentures. Some cover 50% of the cost. Medicaid sometimes helps pay too.

Questions People Often Ask

Making Your Decision

Choosing between acrylic and metal partial dentures depends on what matters most to you:

• If cost is your biggest concern, acrylic might be best
• If long-term use matters most, metal is probably better
• If you need something right after teeth extraction, start with acrylic
• If you have allergies to metal, look at acrylic or flexible options

Talk to your dentist or prosthodontist before deciding. They know your mouth best!

What Dentists Recommend

Many dental experts suggest:

• Metal partials for missing back teeth where strength matters
• Flexible partials for front teeth where looks matter most
• Acrylic partials as a starter option before getting implants

The American Dental Association (ADA) says that the best choice depends on each person’s needs.

New Options in Denture Technology

Dental technology keeps getting better! Some new options include:

• CAD/CAM denture design for perfect fit
• 3D printing for faster making of partials
• Implant-supported partials that snap in place
• Better materials that look more like real teeth
• Precision attachment dentures without visible clasps

Ask your dentist about these new options!

Final Thoughts

Both acrylic and metal partial dentures can replace missing teeth well. The right choice depends on your needs, budget, and what your mouth is like.

Remember:

• Metal lasts longer but costs more
• Acrylic costs less but needs replacing sooner
• Comfort gets better with either type as you get used to them
• Oral health matters no matter which you choose

Talk to your dental professional to make the best choice for your smile!

Want to learn more? Check out acrylic partial dentures for details on that option.