What Are Dentures Made Of? Materials Explained

The Two Parts of a Denture

Every denture or partial has two parts: the base, which sits on your gums and holds everything together, and the teeth, which replace the missing ones. Partials also have a way to grip your natural teeth, such as wire clasps or flexible gum-colored extensions.

Denture Base Materials

Denture Teeth Materials

• Acrylic resin teeth are the most common today. They’re lightweight, bond well to the base, and are gentle on opposing natural teeth.
• Porcelain teeth are hard and stain-resistant, but heavier, more brittle, and can wear down opposing natural teeth, so they’re used less often.

Clasps and Attachments

Acrylic partials typically use small stainless steel wire clasps. Flexible partials use gum-colored extensions of the base instead of metal, which is why they’re popular when people want partial dentures without visible metal.

How Material Affects Cost

Material is one of the biggest cost drivers. At a dental office, flexible partials typically run about $900–$2,000 and cast metal about $650–$2,500, according to Guardian Life. FixUrSmile acrylic partials start at $245 and flexible partials at $315.

Caring for Each Material

• Acrylic: brush daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner; keep moist.
• Flexible: avoid hot water and harsh cleaners that can warp or discolor it.
• Metal clasps: handle gently so they don’t bend.

Full routine: how to clean partial dentures.

What Are Dentures Made of: Frequently Asked Questions