Cobalt Chrome Dentures – Information, Advantages, Prices
Fact Checked by Dr. M. Mansoor Majeed
Dr. M. Mansoor Majeed (BDS, MDS, CHPE) has over ten years of experience as a practicing dentist, medical writer, and researcher. He also works as an assistant professor at a renowned health sciences university. Dr. Mansoor has written more than 25 research articles, which have been published in renowned medical journals, and has presented his research at conferences worldwide.
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You may have heard of false teeth called cobalt chrome dentures, cobalt chromium dentures, or cast partial dentures. This type of denture has a base plate or frame of metal that is formed to sit either on or around natural teeth. Acrylic false/artificial teeth are attached to the metal base. It is from the metal base holding onto natural teeth that give these chrome dentures stability and retention.
Whether you will be a good candidate for cobalt chrome dentures depends on many factors including how many natural teeth remain and where they happen to be positioned in your mouth. Another key element in the success of installing a cobalt chrome denture is the design of the framework.
The goal is to create chrome dentures that will have the strongest grip and high resistance to the forces exerted when chewing. This requires time spent on the overall planning and preparation of the remaining teeth used for anchoring the chrome dentures.
Essentially, there are two methods used to support these dentures. They can be tooth-borne or tooth and mucosal-borne. Tooth borne means the chrome dentures are supported only by your teeth. Tooth and mucosal borne refer to false teeth supported by both your teeth and mucosa.
Cobalt Chrome Dentures Advantages and Disadvantages
Cobalt Chrome Denture Advantages
There are several potential advantages of cobalt chrome dentures. They include the following:
- Durability: Cobalt chromium resists breaking and cracking since it is a very robust and durable substance that can sustain the pressure of regular use.
- Lightweight: Because cobalt chromium is a lightweight material, wearing a denture for a long time is simple.
- Aesthetics: Cobalt chrome denture metal is exceptionally robust, allowing for the production of smaller, more aesthetically acceptable denture frames.
- Biocompatibility: Because cobalt chrome is biocompatible, there is a lower chance that it will result in an allergic reaction or other negative side effects when used topically.
- Comfort: Cobalt chrome dentures’ light weight and sturdy frames offer a snug fit that can improve oral health and general quality of life.
- It is important to note that the advantages of cobalt chrome dentures may vary based on individual needs and circumstances.
Cobalt Chrome Denture Disadvantages
There are also several potential disadvantages of cobalt chrome dentures. These include:
- Cost: Cobalt chrome dentures are typically more expensive at first and when changes are required than traditional acrylic dentures, which can be a barrier for some people.
- Longer manufacturing time: Cobalt chrome dentures require more time to be manufactured than traditional acrylic dentures.
- Requires specialized lab: Cobalt chrome dentures require specialized lab and dental technician expertise, which may not be available in all dental practices.
- Chrome dentures can bend if they are sat on and would have to be replaced
- Sometimes the chrome is visible
It is important to note that these are potential disadvantages, and not all individuals may experience these issues. It is best to consult with a dental professional to determine if cobalt chrome dentures are the best option for your specific dental needs.
How Do You Know If You Are A Good Candidate For Cobalt Chrome Dentures?
Cobalt chrome dentures are ideal for patients who have a history of breakage with their acrylic dentures or are allergic to other denture materials. Other factors that may influence your candidacy include your oral anatomy, bone density, oral health, and functional needs. If your muscle control is compromised or you suffer from gag reflexes from the size and fit of normal dentures, these could be your best solution.
If you are considering cobalt chrome dentures, you should consult with a dental professional who can evaluate your oral health and determine if you are a good candidate.
Metal Dentures Vs. Plastic Dentures
There are very distinct differences between metal (cobalt chrome) and plastic (acrylic) dentures. Some of them have already been outlined in the list of advantages to chrome dentures but bear repeating.
As metal is stronger than plastic, chrome dentures are less bulky than plastic. Being thinner than acrylic means they can also be more lightweight. They also last longer and are stronger.
Acrylic dentures are a better choice if you have no natural teeth as chrome dentures require teeth to hold them in place. Acrylic dentures are less expensive but are easier to damage than metal dentures.
Cobalt Chrome Denture Prices
One of the biggest differences between cobalt chrome dentures and acrylic dentures is in their pricing. Cobalt chrome dentures are generally a more expensive denture option. They can be between 20-100% more expensive compared to acrylic (partial & full) dentures.
Chrome denture prices are related to the fact that metal dentures are less likely to break as the material used is more durable. Plus, as they can be made thinner than plastic, metal dentures are lightweight and fit more comfortably in the mouth.
As a very rough guide on cobalt chrome denture prices:
- 1 – 3 tooth chrome cobalt partial denture – $825 USD
- 4 – 8 tooth chrome partial denture – $965 USD
- 9 – 14 tooth chrome cobalt partial denture – $1,100 USD
See pricing for various denture options here.
Chrome Dentures FAQs
What is a chrome denture?
A chrome denture is a denture that contains a metal framework made from a mixture of chromium and cobalt. This combination prevents corrosion and creates lightweight, better-fitting, comfortable dentures. The nature of the metal construction also means that dentures made from this material are strong and will last a long time.
Chrome dentures are a logical solution for dental patients who accidentally break or otherwise damage traditional acrylic dentures. They are also stronger than acrylic dentures which reduce breaks, cracks, or other damage. Because chrome dentures fit better and are secured in place with clasps, it is easier to eat some foods that would cause acrylic dentures to dislodge.
What do chrome dentures look like?
Chrome dentures look slightly different from acrylic dentures. That is because the metal framework that forms the foundation for the false teeth is quite visible. However, once in place, the metalwork is not easy to see except possibly the clasps.
Are chrome cobalt dentures safe?
Cobalt chrome is hypoallergenic, which means that it should not cause any irritation and is safe to wear. The same material is used in the manufacturing of surgical equipment and implants used in dental care and joint replacement. Because it is hypoallergenic, cobalt chrome is also a metal used in various types of jewelry.
Are chrome dentures better than acrylic dentures?
This depends on your needs. If you are replacing a complete row of missing teeth, an acrylic denture is the best option. That is primarily because chrome dentures require natural teeth on either side for anchors. However, if you are missing just a few teeth and are considering a partial denture, chrome dentures are the better option simply because they are of better quality, less bulky, fit better, and will last a long time. Cobalt chrome is also lightweight and feels more comfortable to wear than acrylic. As for the cost of removable dentures, chrome dentures are the most expensive and are priced at around $1,400 for the metal framework (upper or lower) and approx. $65 per tooth.
How long do metal dentures last?
Provided they are taken care of properly, chrome dentures can last between five and ten years, or more.
How do you care for chrome dentures?
The cleaning process is the same for chrome dentures as for acrylic dentures. Start by either lining the countertop with a folded towel or filling a sink with water. This will cushion the dentures should they slip out of your hands and fall. Rinse them under warm running water. Brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste specially formulated for denture care. Rinse under warm water again, and soak overnight in a cleaning solution. Before replacing the dentures in your mouth in the morning, rinse them off once more under warm running water.
In Conclusion
Metal dentures, whether you are seeking a full cobalt chrome denture or chrome partial denture will last longer, stay in place and fit better than any other type of false teeth. However, the chrome denture prices are more which bears serious consideration. Plus, you may not be a good candidate for metal dentures.
To be sure, it is best to visit your local dentist and discuss your options to see if cobalt chrome dentures are the right solution for you.
