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Which kind you’re likely to need
The type of denture sets most of the price. Cleveland Clinic and the ADA’s MouthHealthy site describe these:
- Full dentures replace every tooth in the upper or lower jaw.
- Partial dentures fill gaps when you still have some healthy teeth. Clasps hook around the teeth you keep.
- Implant-retained dentures snap onto a few implants in the jaw, so they move less. You can still take them out.
- Implant-supported dentures are fixed to implants and aren’t removed at home.
A dentist can tell you which suits your mouth after an exam and X-rays. If you only need one tooth replaced, see dental implant cost for how an implant and a bridge compare.
Immediate or conventional
This choice changes how long you go without teeth, and how many times you pay.
- Conventional dentures are made after your remaining teeth come out and your gums heal. MouthHealthy says that healing may take several months.
- Immediate dentures go in the same day the teeth come out, so you’re never without teeth. MouthHealthy says they may need to be relined or remade after your jaw heals.
Immediate dentures can mean paying for a reline or a second set later. Ask your dentist whether that’s included in the quote or billed separately.
What it costs without insurance
These are national ranges from CareCredit’s 2026 cost study. Your dentist’s fee can land outside them.
| What you’re paying for | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Full dentures, traditional | $1,493 to $3,309 |
| Full dentures, low-cost | $340 to $760 |
| Full dentures, premium | $4,484 to $11,018 |
| Immediate dentures, full | $1,670 to $3,573 |
| Partial denture, metal | $1,700 to $3,717 |
| Partial denture, flexible nylon | $1,296 to $2,916 |
| Partial denture, resin | $1,335 to $2,873 |
| Implant-supported dentures | $2,830 to $7,203 per implant |
Two things the table doesn’t tell you. CareCredit doesn’t say whether the full-denture prices are for one arch or both, so ask your dentist which a quote covers. And implant-supported dentures are priced per implant, so the total depends on how many implants you need.
The low-cost and premium lines differ mainly in materials and how much the set is customized. Ask what you get at each price.
Extras that often show up
- Extractions. Any teeth that need to come out are usually a separate charge. See tooth extraction cost.
- The exam and X-rays. Often a separate line at a new office.
- Adjustments. MouthHealthy says new dentures may feel awkward and cause minor soreness for a few weeks. Ask how many follow-up visits the price includes.
- Relines. Cleveland Clinic suggests a reline every one to two years, or whenever the fit changes. No national price was available, so ask for it up front.
Ask for a written estimate that lists every visit and every piece. You can also try your numbers in the dental cost estimator.
The cost over time
Dentures aren’t a one-time purchase. Cleveland Clinic puts the average lifespan of a denture at seven to 10 years.
The FDA explains why: the bone in your jaw slowly shrinks, so dentures gradually get loose. When that happens, they should be relined or remade. A denture that keeps slipping is a reason to see your dentist, not to use more adhesive.
If you use adhesive, choose a zinc-free one and follow the label. The FDA warns that overusing zinc-containing adhesives can add up to too much zinc, which can cause nerve damage. If you notice numbness or tingling, the FDA says to stop using the adhesive and call your doctor. MouthHealthy suggests looking for the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
How to pay less
- Get two written estimates. Dentures are planned ahead, so there’s time to compare. If you need a new dentist, Opencare lets you search and book nearby offices.
- Join a dental savings plan before the first visit. A dental savings plan is a discount membership, not insurance. There’s usually no yearly cap and no waiting period. Confirm the exact plan with your dentist’s office.
- Look at a dental school clinic. NIDCR says dental school clinics often provide care at reduced cost, with students gaining experience under supervision.
- Check a community health center. NIDCR says federally funded centers let you pay based on what you can afford.
- Know what Medicare does and doesn’t do. NIDCR says Medicare doesn’t cover dentures. That means Original Medicare; some Medicare Advantage plans add dental benefits, so check yours.
- Check Medicaid. Adult dental coverage varies by state.
How to care for them
Good care helps dentures last and keeps your gums healthy.
- Take dentures out every day. Cleveland Clinic suggests soaking them overnight in a denture solution.
- Brush dentures daily with a soft brush and a non-abrasive cleanser, as MouthHealthy advises.
- Keep them covered in water when they’re out, so they don’t warp.
- Brush your gums and any natural teeth twice a day.
- Keep up with checkups, even with a full set, so the fit and your gums get checked.
If you still have some natural teeth, protecting them keeps more options open. See the best electric toothbrush.
Reviewed by Ryan Smith, DDS on September 26, 2026. It explains tooth pain in general and isn't a diagnosis. Medical disclaimer.