Fabrication of Ark

Shell-Reinforced
Artificial Teeth

Prepared by:
Ma. Zeina Angela Z. Arcalas
May Ann V. Peralta

Submitted to:
Dr. Cherrileen Gabiola

I. Introduction
Rationale and Background of the Study
Artificial teeth for dentures are most commonly made using acrylic resins (plastic) and
porcelain. Porcelains are considered to be stronger and more durable for long-term use but are
quite expensive when compared to acrylic teeth. Acrylics, on the other hand, are the cheaper but
more aesthetically pleasing choice since it blends in well with the color of the teeth. However,
artificial teeth made of acrylic are comparatively less strong and may break easily when not
properly cared for. This is the reason why they are mainly used as temporary teeth when cost and
time are limiting factors for porcelains which are longer lasting.

One major concern of most people is that they cannot afford dentures with artificial teeth
made of porcelain. Instead, they settle for the cheaper choice which is that made of acrylic. Since
acrylic artificial teeth have lesser durability, they tend to wear easily over time or break during
strong forces of mastication.

The objective of this study is to be able to reinforce artificial teeth made of acrylic resin
with the use of ark shells. The addition of ark shells to the acrylic resins in fabrication aims to
make the resulting artificial teeth stronger and more durable. Thereby, artificial teeth which are
strong and aesthetically pleasing can be made without having to use expensive materials.
Ark shell has been chosen as reinforcement material since it is abundantly found along
the shorelines of the province of Pangasinan. It is a material that has high calcium and fluoride
content which makes it a relatively strong material. It has white color which makes it a suitable
material for aesthetically pleasing artificial teeth. It is also considered as an eco-friendly material
and is considerably economic since it is cheap and can be easily obtained.



Conceptual Framework
Independent Variables Dependent Variables







Ark Shell-Reinforced Acrylic Artificial Teeth
Acrylic Artificial Teeth
2. Hardness
3. Durability
1. Resistance to Abrasion
4. Color and Appearance
5. Cost
6. Tissue Adaptability
7. Thermo-physical Properties
Statement of the Problem

Main Problem:
Compare acrylic artificial teeth with ark shell and acrylic artificial teeth without ark shell.

Sub Problem:
Which is more durable acrylic artificial teeth reinforced with ark shell or acrylic artificial
teeth without ark shell?

Can ark shell powder be used as a component of acrylic artificial teeth?

Will ark shell powder be an effective reinforcement for acrylic artificial teeth?