Metal allergies and dentures: what your clinician needs to know

A known metal allergy or a previous reaction to dental work should be discussed before a denture is made. Bring the details you have. A reaction to jewellery does not, by itself, identify every dental material you can or cannot tolerate.

Describe the reaction accurately

Tell the clinician what material or object caused the problem, what symptoms developed and how quickly they appeared. Bring allergy-test results or previous dental records if available. Distinguish a confirmed allergy from irritation or an unexplained sore area; the next steps may differ.

Ask about the exact components

A partial denture can contain several materials, including a framework, clasps, teeth and a gum-coloured base. Ask what is proposed and how any known allergy affects the options. Do not assume that every metal framework contains the same alloy or that a metal-free appliance cannot cause irritation.

Do not diagnose a new sore mouth yourself

Redness or burning can have several causes, including fit, dryness, infection and sensitivity. A clinician needs to examine the mouth and appliance before attributing symptoms to a material. Further dental or medical assessment may be needed if the cause is unclear.

Respond to urgent symptoms appropriately

Stop using a product that appears to be causing a reaction and seek advice. Sudden swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing, needs emergency help: call 999. For a persistent local problem, arrange an assessment and bring a list of the materials and cleaning products you use. Avoid buying a replacement denture on the assumption that a different marketing label will resolve the issue.