Contemporary denture base resins: Part 1

Provision of partial and complete dentures constructed from resin is commonplace and a satisfactory outcome requires the consideration of the properties of the resin, the oral tissues and prosthodontic principles. Conventional acrylic resin has been widely adopted as a popular denture base material since the 1930s. In this first of a two-part series, the benefits and shortcomings of acrylic resin are discussed alongside contemporary 'enhancements' to the material which can improve its properties. In the second part of the series, flexible and other alternative denture base resins, soft-linings, adverse effects of denture base materials and maintenance will be discussed.

Knowledge of contemporary denture base resin systems will help to achieve optimal outcomes in removable prosthodontics.