What is a Cobalt Chrome Denture?

Partial dentures are dental devices that are made to replace one or more missing teeth; they are designed to fit securely into the mouth, using the surrounding teeth as anchors to hold it fast. Whilst they can be seen to perform the same task as full dentures, they don’t replace all the teeth and there is usually no need for numerous extractions. ‘Cobalt chrome’ describes the materials used to build the most up-to-date partial dentures, which are thought to last longer, perform better, and feel more comfortable than resin ones. The device is made using the metallic chemical element cobalt, combined with hard-wearing chrome, which together make for a much more durable, long-lasting denture, when compared to other similar designs. Of course, this depends on the needs of the patient and whether or not the dentist feels a cobalt chrome appliance would be best suited to their condition.

So, cobalt chrome dentures are better than normal ones?

The dental industry is always developing exciting new products, designed to make treatment easier and more effective; cobalt chrome dentures are evidence of these positive changes for many reasons.

Durability – Whilst most dentures are built to be hard wearing, they can still break if they are put under too much pressure, or they simply wear away over the passage of time. The use of cobalt chrome to re-enforce the dentures is a proven way to make the appliances last longer and remain resistant to damage. Some resin designs might seem like the better option initially – primarily due to price differences – but they are more likely to succumb to breakages and require repair as they wear away, the metal frame that makes up the cobalt chrome versions will keep the dentures in top condition for much longer.

Comfort – Thanks to their strength, chrome dentures can be made much thinner than resin alternatives, this means that they can be shaped to fit over the entire palate without impeding speech or complicating chewing patterns. Some dentures can feel bulky or uncomfortable when being worn, but cobalt chrome devices are less obstructive and take up very little space in the mouth – once they have become accustomed to it, the patient won’t even know they are wearing a denture.

More natural – Although it might not always be obvious if someone is wearing a dental appliance, it’s often the case that they are painfully aware of it themselves, not because their smile looks unfamiliar, but because they are always conscious of the fact that there is plastic device in their mouth. Human beings can get used to a great many things, given enough time, but who wouldn’t want a better fitting denture, that feels more natural when they’re wearing it? The metal framework adds weight to the device, giving it a stable, solid feel, which gives the impression of a more permanent fixture, rather than a dental appliance.

Where can I get a cobalt chrome denture from?

You’ll need to speak to your dentist about the suitability and availability of a cobalt chrome denture, as not all surgeries will have the up-to-date technology to offer such modern alternatives. Have a look online to find a provider in your local area, or further afield if you don’t mind travelling to attend your dental appointments. Don’t be disappointed if you can’t find a surgery in your area, call the Pearl Dental Clinic, London, they can arrange a consultation at your convenience, and their team members should also be able to give you a brief overview of treatment times and prices.

There are normally two appointments required for a partial denture; the first is to examine the teeth and determine the next steps to be taken, and the second is to fit the device and make any necessary adjustments. This is just a general idea of what to expect when you go to the clinic, if you have more severe dental issues – such as gum disease or tooth decay, you will have to wait a little bit longer for your dentures, while your surgeon prepares your teeth; there’s no sense in fitting a denture in an unsuitable environment, it would only exacerbate obvious problems in the long run.

Are cobalt chrome dentures hard to take care of?

No more so than any other partial denture, but you need to remember that man-made devices are still vulnerable to damage, no matter how unbreakable they might seem. Clean your teeth twice a day, and avoid any food or drink that may have caused you problems in the past – if you allow your anchoring teeth to succumb to decay, your device won’t fit properly or perform as well, and it might even need replacing.

With any kind of restorative appliance, it’s important to maintain a good relationship with your dentist, to avoid any complications. Follow-up appointments are essential, so that your surgeon can check the denture and make sure there are no signs of gum disease or infection, as well as making any adjustments in the first few weeks after the fitting. You should speak up if you are finding any areas of use particularly uncomfortable, but becoming accustomed to the denture shouldn’t be too painful.

How much do cobalt chrome dentures cost?

Because they are the best partial dentures on the market, chrome cobalt designs tend to be at the more expensive end of the scale, but the price can vary according to several factors; how many teeth need replacing, the level of experience the dentist has with this kind of device, and how long the treatment is expected to take, i.e. whether there are any extractions or further procedures that need performing beforehand. Acrylic dentures usually cost a few hundred pounds, whereas their chrome counterparts can range from five hundred pounds all the way up into the thousands, for the top-end designs. It does sound like a lot of money, but it’s best to look at it as an investment in your smile; a great quality, durable denture will last you much longer than a cheaper version, whilst providing you with more comfort and performance.