Dentures are the ideal solution for those with tooth loss. They are typically made of metal, plastic, or both. Dentures are available in many types, including full (whole), partial, and implant-supported.
The cost of dentures will depend on several factors, including where you live, whether they are traditional or implant-supported, and how much work needs to be done on them. On average, dentures may cost between $1,000 and $4,000 for a complete set of permanent dentures (excluding extractions), but it is possible to save money if you research and choose wisely.
Dentures are durable appliances, but they can wear out over time. If you’ve had your dentures for a while and they do not fit as well as they used to, it may be time for repair or relining. You’ll also need to have them adjusted if you’ve lost weight since getting them fitted originally.
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. It can be made from acrylic, metal, plastic, or all three materials. There are many different types of dentures, including traditional and implant-supported.
Traditional dentures are made from acrylic, used to make artificial aquarium plants and fake snowmen. They’re inserted into your mouth by being held in place by suction. Sometimes, the fit may feel loose or unstable because the material doesn’t stretch like gum tissue. This can lead to pain after wearing them for long periods.
Types of Dentures
The types of dentures include:
1. Full Dentures
Full dentures are also known as complete or conventional dentures. They are recommended for people who lost all of their teeth. Full dentures are designed to simultaneously replace all the teeth belonging to a person’s teeth. They occupy the entire upper or low jaw to replace the missing teeth. Also, they are typically fixed and made of acrylic.
2. Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are not used to replace the entire set of lower or upper teeth but to replace a set of teeth. If a part of your mouth is without teeth, you will feel uncomfortable, especially when biting or chewing foods.
You wouldn’t even be able to smile properly, which can greatly affect your confidence and self-esteem. Do you have a set of teeth missing from your mouth? If yes, try out partial dentures to help replace that missing set of teeth.
Partial dentures are of two types, which include:
Removable partial dentures: This denture procedure is best suited for people with some remaining teeth and who prefer removable appliances. This type of partial denture pairs onto the existing teeth using clasps. Removable dentures can replace a whole set of lower or upper teeth. These dentures must be cleaned with water or cleansers every night to prevent them from drying. With time, you will adapt to using removable dentures after a week or two of doing any activity with your mouth, especially speaking, smiling, and chewing.
Fixed partial dentures: Fixed partial dentures can be a great option for people whose teeth aren’t complete and who prefer a non-removable option. A general rule of thumb is that fixed dentures are made on an acrylic base that simulates your natural gums. Fixed dentures help to cover your jaw and cause artificial teeth to fit your gums. With improvements in implant treatments, fixed dentures can bypass the discomfort and embarrassment of dentures coming out of your mouth. You can use adhesives to keep the denture fixed in your mouth.
3. Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures, also known as snap-in dentures, are another type. They are best for patients who lost teeth but need extra denture stability. Dental implants are best for those with missing teeth who wish to keep the teeth stable and secure in the mouth.
4. Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures aren’t permanent. They stay for a short while, which makes them suitable for people who want their teeth removed from their mouth and dentures delivered on the same day.
The Cost of Dentures
There are several types of full arch ventures in the dental industry, with each of these types of dentures having its own specific cost. The cost of dentures varies widely depending on the type of denture, your dentist, and where you live. Most patients pay between $1,000 and $4,000 for a complete set of dentures. The ranges of the cost of dentures based on the type of dentures include:
Traditional dentures cost.
Implant-supported dentures cost.
Immediate denture cost.
Partial Dentures cost.
Resin base Denture cost.
Metal Cast Denture cost.
Flexible Nylon Denture cost.
Interim choices
1. Traditional Dentures Cost
Traditional dentures are the usual type of denture treatment. They are made of acrylic resin, which makes them flexible and durable. The cost of traditional dentures can range from $1,000 to $2,500.
Traditional upper and lower dentures will have a metal framework or plastic base. The choice depends on your dentist’s preference and budget; both options have pros and cons.
2. Implant-Supported Dentures Cost
Implant-supported dentures are the most expensive and durable type of dentures. They’re also the most natural-looking, though they are uncomfortable and difficult to wear. Implants are small posts placed inside your mouth, where they remain permanently. The posts are connected with a wire or synthetic material that serves as an anchor for your dentures.
If you have loose teeth (and therefore very little bone), you may not be able to get implant-supported dentures since there’s not enough bone mass left in your jaw to support them.
Even if you could afford them, implants aren’t an option for people who don’t have enough bone mass around their teeth due to gum recession or other issues like tooth loss caused by trauma or disease (such as osteoporosis). The implant-supported dentures cost is in the region of $4000 to $14,000.
3. Immediate Denture Cost
You should expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,000 for immediate dentures. This is one of the most common types of denture, and it can be worn immediately without any additional treatment or hardening time required.
Immediate dentures are usually made from acrylic or acrylic resin material. They’re soft enough to be removed for cleaning but still provide a sturdy foundation for your new teeth.
Immediate dentures will fit securely in your mouth immediately without special treatment. You can start eating and speaking with them immediately after they are in place.
4. Partial Dentures Cost
Immediate or conventional partial dentures can cost between $2,000 and $4,000. Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace only the missing teeth.
They can be used with conventional crowns, bridges, or other dental treatments. Their cost is within the average range of dentures in the market.
5. Resin Base Denture Cost
Metal-based dentures are more durable than resin-based ones, but they can be uncomfortable and stain easily. Resin base dentures cost less, but they’re less durable than metal base dentures, which tend to wear out faster. The resin base dentures’ costs range from $1,000 to $1,500.
6. Metal Cast Denture Cost
Should you choose a metal cast denture, you will be paying more than if you had chosen a conventional denture. A metal cast partial or full denture is made of metal and can be adjusted to fit your mouth perfectly. The cast part of your smile will have a high level of durability, making it the ideal choice for people prone to wearing down their teeth over time.
Metal cast dentures are one of the most durable and quality crafted dentures. They are made from an all-metal alloy mixed with other materials like porcelain and resin to create an artificial tooth that looks completely natural and feels like real teeth when you bite down on something hard. The metal cast dentures cost between $1,200 and $2,000.
7. Flexible Nylon Denture Cost
Flexible nylon dentures are one of the most affordable types of dental prosthetics. They’re also not as durable or comfortable as metal dentures and aren’t quite as attractive.
However, they could work well for you with a small budget. If you’re considering getting flexible nylon dentures, we recommend consulting with an experienced dentist who can help determine whether this type is right for you. The flexible nylon dentures cost below $2,500. Dentures in the range of $500 to $1,000.
8. Interim Choices
Interim choices are partial or short-term dentures, which may be made of resin polymer, acrylic, or nylon thermoplastic. This type of denture isn’t expensive. Averagely, they cost $750, but you can do it anywhere between $500 to $900.
When you decide to get dentures for your teeth, remember that there are several other costs you’ll have to pay when you get dentures for your teeth. Some of the additional expenses you may have to bear when getting dentures to include the following:
Oral exams cost.
Tooth extraction cost.
Anesthesia cost.
Diagnostic casts cost.
Panoramic X-ray cost.
Tissue conditioning cost.
Denture adjustments cost.
Denture relining cost.
1. Oral Exams Cost
A dental exam is an important part of the process when you’re getting dentures, and it is necessary to ensure that your new teeth are comfortable and fit properly.
While the cost varies depending on where you live and which dentist you choose, a typical oral exam will cost anywhere from $50 to $250. This includes cleaning and polishing your teeth as well as an assessment of how much work is needed to prepare them for the fitting of your dentures.
If you’ve never had a dental exam before or it’s been several years since your last visit, having more than one appointment may be necessary before getting fitted for your new set of teeth.
Do well to impress your dentist to do their best to keep costs down by ordering only what they need so that there’s no waste in creating your temporary oral appliances (called temporaries). But this will also mean that additional charges could be associated with multiple visits instead of one long appointment where everything would have been done simultaneously.
2. Tooth Extraction Cost
The tooth extraction cost depends on your teeth’ type, location, and condition. Extractions are typically performed by oral surgeons or dentists, depending on their specialty.
An oral surgeon who specializes in dental surgery may be able to remove an impacted wisdom tooth for $100 to $1,000, while an average dentist might charge you $300 to $600. The average patient pays for this treatment out of pocket because insurance usually doesn’t include it unless deemed medically necessary by a doctor.
The exception is if you use dental insurance to pay for the procedure. Still, even then, it’s likely that some portion of your out-of-pocket costs will remain due to deductibles (the amount you have to pay before coverage kicks in) and co-pays (the percentage of treatment costs charged after reaching deductibles).
Patients also need not worry about paying upfront because many dentists offer payment plans where patients can make monthly payments over time without interest charges being applied until all payments are made at once upon completion of the treatment plan.
3. Anesthesia Cost
The cost of anesthesia depends on how you choose to be sedated. One option is to have local anesthesia, which only numbs the area where you have work done.
A second option is a general anesthesia, which puts you into a deep sleep, so you don’t feel any pain. The final option is sedation, administered through nitrous oxide or oral medication such as Valium or Ativan. If your dentist decides this would be an appropriate method for you, he will discuss with his team how they will administer it and what costs are involved.
4. Diagnostic Casts Cost
This is one of the first steps when it comes to dentures. A mold of your mouth needs to be created. You will need to go to the dentist or orthodontist and have them make a cast of your teeth, which is then used to create the mold.
The dentist will use a material similar to plaster but more flexible, as it needs to be able to move around inside your mouth so that they can get an accurate impression of how each tooth fits into its socket. The cost of a diagnostic cast varies depending on where you decide to have your dentures made.
5. Panoramic X-ray Cost
Panoramic x-rays are a special type of x-ray that takes a picture of the entire mouth. They can be used to diagnose problems in the mouth or jaw and determine if you’re ready for dentures. The cost of panoramic x-rays varies depending on your dentist and location, but it may cost anywhere from $50 to $195 per time.
6. Tissue Conditioning Cost
Tissue conditioning is a procedure that prepares the mouth for dentures to be put in. It involves cleaning and shaping the gums and removing any excess tissue, which can then be replaced with a shape-holding material for about six months. The cost of this service depends on where you get it done and how long it takes to complete.
The average price of tissue conditioning ranges from $200 – $500 per arch (one side). This fee includes any additional procedures needed before placing your dentures, such as scaling or root planing (cleaning). Some clinics only charge this fee once, while others require multiple visits over several weeks, so inquire about their policies before scheduling anything.
7. Denture Adjustments Cost
You may need to have your dentures adjusted after fitting. This is necessary because the mouth changes as you heal, and new tissues grow, affecting how the denture fits.
If a patient has only one or two teeth remaining, they may not be able to wear a custom-made partial denture because it’s unlikely that there are enough stable teeth left to hold it in place. Instead, these patients would need to wear an overdenture (a well-fitting removable prosthesis) or full upper and lower fixed partial dentures that attach directly onto the remaining natural teeth via clasps on either side of each tooth.
8. Denture Relining Cost
Denture relining is a process in which the denture is removed, and the gum around it is cleaned. The denture is then placed back into the mouth and adjusted to ensure it fits properly. If you need your teeth replaced because of tooth decay or injury, you might also consider relining your denture so that your new teeth fit more comfortably and securely than your old ones.
Like other dental procedures, relining can be done by a dentist or an assistant under the dentist’s supervision. If you have health insurance coverage for dental services, check with your provider to see if they reimburse this procedure.
What are The Factors That Affect Denture Cost?
Several factors could affect the cost of your denture greatly. These factors affect how expensive or less expensive dentures can cost. Some of these factors include:
Denture Size
Dentist Location
Denture Material
Use of Implants
1. Denture Size
The size and shape of your mouth determine your denture size. There are a few measurements, but they’re all based on the width and length of your original teeth. You’ll want to ensure an accurate measurement before purchasing a new set of dentures so they fit comfortably in your mouth. The size of any denture plays an important role in the cost of the denture.
2. Dentist Location
The location of your dentist’s office can affect the cost of your denture. Dentists who live near you and make house calls will typically cost less than those who travel to your home or office.
If you live in a rural area, you may have to drive further to visit the nearest dentist, increasing travel time and costs. On the other hand, if you live in an urban area close to many dentists, it may be easier for them to provide house calls or accommodate flexible scheduling (e.g., weekends).
3. Denture Material
In addition to the cost of a denture, you’ll also want to consider what material it’s made of. Denture materials vary in terms of price, comfort, and durability. The type of denture material affects and influences the cost of the denture. Some of the most common materials used for dentures are:
Acrylic resin: This affordable option is lightweight and easy to clean. But it’s less durable than other options and may be more likely to irritate your gums over time. Acrylic resin dentures are designed to be pink, which resembles your natural gums. Similarly, the teeth are resin colored to resemble your natural teeth. This material is less expensive than porcelain dentures; they are lightweight and easily adjustable. However, the acrylic resin has shorter durability than porcelain. Your acrylic resin dentures will be due for replacement between five to eight years.
Resin-modified glass ionomer (RMG): This is an acrylic resin combined with calcium phosphate crystals that give it greater strength than regular acrylics. It can last up to 10 years if worn regularly. It may also be more comfortable than typical acrylics since they’re less likely to irritate your gums or jawbone as much.
Porcelain dentures: Porcelain is harder and more durable than acrylic. They offer great aesthetics for natural teeth replacement and resemble natural teeth. However, they are more expensive and can break during accidents.
Metal dentures: As the name suggests, metal dentures or their palate layer clasps are made with metal. However, the aesthetics are poor because the metal color is noticeable. Nevertheless, they are durable and long-lasting.
Other denture materials include:
Flexible polymer.
Nickel Chrome.
Chrome cobalt.
Stainless steel.
Gold.
The artificial teeth in dentures are made from porcelain or acrylic resin. Although acrylic teeth are lighter and cheaper, they wear down quickly. On the other hand, porcelain teeth are heavier and more cosmetic but are costly.
4. Use of Implants
Implant-supported dentures are known to be more costly than removable dentures. The reason why implant-supported dentures are more expensive is that surgery is needed to fix the implants.
Dentures can sometimes be costly, especially if you are on a budget, but do not worry much. There are several avenues and ways to pay for dentures, including:
Discount Dental Plan.
Government Dental Programs.
Dental Schools.
Donated Dental Services (DDS).
Dental Payment Plans.
1. Discount Dental Plan
Discount dental plans offer a better and ideal way to cut spending and save money on dental treatments. Insurance companies usually offer these plans and can be purchased through a broker or directly from the insurance company itself.
These plans are typically paid in monthly installments and will cover many of the costs associated with dentistry, including exams, x-rays, and cleanings. The money you save with these plans depends on your chosen plan. Some have lower fees than others. This is an excellent way of paying for dentures.
2. Government Dental Programs
Government programs can also help with the cost of dentures if you’re on Medicaid, Vocational Rehabilitation, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), SSI (Supplemental Security Income), SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), or SCHIP (State Children’s Health Insurance Program).
There are ways that you can get assistance with your dental bills and even pay for the entire procedure if it is eligible for one of these government benefits.
If you don’t qualify for any of these programs but have a low income, there are still other options available to help reduce the cost of your dentures, some of which include:
Checking into local charities in your area that may provide funding or loan options. Some charities only offer this service to people living within their area. Others will take applications from anyone within a certain radius of their office location.
Online crowd-sourcing platforms like GoFundMe and several other crowdfunding platforms, you never know what kind of donation support opportunities may come your way.
3. Dental Schools
Dentists in dental schools are usually residents. Residents are generally in their third year of training, supervised by faculty members, and paid through the school or hospital that employs them. They earn a salary and often have a tuition waiver as well.
These can form sources of income for payment for your dentures if you are a member of a dental school. Dental schools offer discounted dental services for the public. These discounts can be applied to any dental work, including dentures.
4. Donated Dental Services (DDS)
Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a nonprofit organization that provides free dental care to those who cannot afford it. The organization is a volunteer dentists and staff network providing free dental care to needy people.
If you are currently working toward your dental license, volunteering with DDS can be an excellent way to gain experience and help others at the same time. You can approach the DDS to help Carter with your dentures.
5. Dental Payment Plans
Some insurance companies offer discounts for certain plans or procedures, so it’s worth checking with your carrier before committing to one option.
Suppose you don’t have enough money to pay for dentures or get approved for a dental payment plan; several options are available.
You can participate in a “buy-in” program where you pay an initial deposit and then receive your dentures after paying the remaining balance over time. There will usually be some interest added to this amount. However, it will likely still be less than what would’ve been paid out-of-pocket by going through traditional means.
Are Dentures Worth It?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing dentures every ten years. That’s because, over time, your mouth’s natural wear and tear can affect its fit, so it becomes necessary to get new ones made. Dentures are an investment in yourself.
Moreover, they can improve your quality of life by making eating properly, speaking clearly, and smiling confidently easier. Therefore, dentures are worth the cost, especially for people who use them.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Dentures can make you eat and speak without a struggle if fitted properly.
Custom-fitted.
It wears your mouth a natural look.
Affordable and cheaper than other alternatives.
It restores your self-esteem and boosts your confidence.
It prevents your mouth from sagging inwardly.
It improves your quality of life.
Cons
Requires frequent maintenance as replacement is required every five to ten years.
Spending much time on oral health and hygiene would be best.
Requires more care and attention than implants.
It requires regular checkups to adjust and prevent it from getting loose.
It stops you from eating, and speaking properly is wrongly fitted.
You may need to reapply denture adhesives every day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Cost of Full and Partial Dentures?
The cost may vary based on the procedure or replacement method, such as your oral condition or whether you want partial dental implants for your upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures are typically cheaper than full dentures.
What Are Dentures Made Of?
As mentioned, dentures are made of acrylic, a sturdy material constructed with resin. This dental material makes the denture look as natural as possible; the base and gums get pink. Denture replacements resemble natural teeth but are not made with natural ingredients but enamel-colored acrylic.
Who Makes Dentures, and Where Can I Get Them?
Since dentures require prosthetic treatment, you must see a qualified specialist or go to a professional medical facility with a prosthodontist. Prosthodontists treat complex dental issues like missing teeth, temporomandibular disorders, dental implants, jaw structure issues, and many more.
What If My Dentures Break?
Some dentures are fragile, whereas others are durable. Some dentures last for long years of use, while others can break or wear down easily. If you are going for dental implants for your missing tooth, get a professional with experience repairing and restoring them.
If your dentures break or stain, you are advised to see a prosthodontist to help you repair them.
Are Dentures Permanent?
We mentioned different types of dentures, such as fixed and partial ones. Depending on your choice and condition, you can choose either fixed or removable dentures for your oral needs.
Dental implants support fixed dentures; they are considered permanent because they are anchored and fixed in your jawbone. On the flip side, removable dentures can be removed as they must be washed and rinsed every night with a brush, adhesives, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and other special cleaning agents.
How long do dentures last?
Regardless of the type and quality, dentures can last many years if cleaned and maintained properly. Still, they won’t stay forever. The longevity and durability of any denture depend largely on the type. A traditional denture lasts about ten years, while an implant-supported one can last 20 years or longer. Resin base dentures only last about five years but are much less expensive than other types.
Full dentures can last over 10 years, whereas partial dentures can last up to 15 years. The implant-supported procedure, sometimes called permanent dentures, is fixed in your mouth and can last 10 or 15 years.
Dentures can be expensive, but do you have options?
If you’re considering getting dentures, the cost will vary depending on what type of dentures you need, the materials used in their creation, and whether or not your dentist offers financing options. The average cost of a full set of upper and lower porcelain (or acrylic) dentures is around $2,500–$5,000.
Does Insurance Cover Dentures?
Unfortunately, most dental insurance plans do not cover dentures, but private dental insurance provides coverage for dentures. Therefore, the amount may vary depending on the coverage options in the plans.
If your plan does, it will likely only cover part of the cost of your new teeth. Some plans provide insurance for dentures, whereas others don’t. Many insurers pay up to 50% of the denture cost, up to the insurance plan’s highest benefit amounts, and remove any deductibles.
Some insurers may offer one set of dentures or one arch once every five to seven years. You may want to check if your insurance company provides dental insurance for dentures and the cost.
Dental insurance is usually an add-on to medical insurance and can be more expensive than medical coverage alone. This is because dental expenses are higher than medical costs and thus attract higher premiums.
The marketplace health insurance programs aren’t required to provide dental coverage services to adults under the Affordable Care Act.
Still, you can get a marketplace plan when purchasing health insurance. It is important to know that these plans differ in their denture features and coverage; hence, be sure to take your time to read all the details when choosing a policy.
While Medicare Parts A and B do not cover dental costs, Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans offer dental services, many of which cover denture costs. Let’s say you already have Medicaid; you can choose any of the 31 states in the United States that offer periodontal services and full or partial dentures.
Some states have limitations, set to one set per lifetime, whereas you can get a new set once every five or ten years. If you cannot get the right dental insurance for your needs, you may have to check out dental discount plans. Moreover, HSA/FSA tax-advantaged savings accounts can be used to make payments for dentures.
Conclusion
Knowing all the costs associated with this process is important if you’re considering getting dentures. Many factors can affect how much dentures cost, including where you live and what type of dentures you want to get.
Depending on the complexity of your case, it may be more cost-effective for you to have them made by a dentist specializing in this procedure rather than going through an oral surgeon or general practitioner. If finances are tight, but dental coverage isn’t available through your insurance provider, consider asking friends or family members if they know anyone who can help.
