How Much Do Partial Dentures Cost?

Partial dentures play an important role in restoring smiles by replacing missing teeth. But like any dental appliance, partials come at a cost. Prices range widely based on the materials used, number of missing teeth, and patient-specific customization.

This guide will break down the average costs of different partial denture types. We’ll outline what impacts pricing and provide cost-saving tips to make this tooth replacement option accessible.

How Much Do Partial Dentures Cost?

The cost for partial dentures can range from $300 for simple acrylic partials to over $2000 for more complex cast metal framework partials with resin teeth. Typical prices fall between $500 and $1800 on average.

On average nationally, you can expect to pay:

• Basic Acrylic Partial Dentures: $300 – $1000
• Cast Metal Frame Partials: $800 – $2000
• Flexible Thermoplastic Partials: $1000 – $2000
• Immediate/Temporary Partials: $300 – $900

For partials replacing 4 to 6 teeth, here are price samples:

Partial Type	Estimated Cost
Basic Acrylic	$600
Metal Frame with Resin Teeth	$1400
Flexible Resin	$1500

Geography also impacts pricing significantly.

According to Guardian Life, partial dentures typically cost between $500 and $2,500 without insurance. The price depends on the materials and customization options. Guardian’s dental insurance plans may cover up to 50% of the cost after a 12-month waiting period, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

On CareCredit, the average cost of partial dentures ranges from $1,333 to $4,203, depending on the material. Flexible nylon partials cost around $1,761, while resin-based partials average $1,738. Cast metal partials are slightly more expensive, averaging $2,229. These prices reflect national averages but may vary by location.

The article on Polident states that partial dentures generally cost between $800 and $2,000, depending on the type and material. Temporary partials are priced at around $900, while more durable options fall at the higher end of the range.

According to Aspen Dental, their Flexilytes™ partial dentures range from $1,319 to $2,930. Aspen Dental offers customization options for tooth and gum shades and provides a money-back guarantee for adjustments within 90 days.

Additionally, Healthline reports that resin-based upper partial dentures cost about $1,215, cast metal ones with resin saddles average $1,685, and flexible upper dentures are priced at around $1,444. These figures are based on national averages provided by the American Dental Association.

What Are Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace one or more missing teeth. They attach to the gumline and surrounding natural teeth via metal clasps or attachments. Partials help:

• Restore the ability to chew and speak properly through tooth replacement
• Secure loose remaining teeth and prevent shifting
• Fill spaces from extracted, lost or congenitally missing teeth
• Support facial structure and muscle tone

Partial dentures may be needed when bridges or dental implants aren’t a candidate for treatment. They offer a budget-friendly solution for missing teeth.

Types of Removable Partial Dentures

There are three main categories of removable partial dentures, each with unique price points:

1. Basic Acrylic Partial Dentures

• Made of lightweight, gum-colored acrylic resin
• Most affordable partial option
• Cost range: $300 – $1500
• Lasts approximately 3-5 years with proper care

Acrylic provides a simple, budget-friendly tooth replacement solution. But acrylic alone lacks long-term durability compared to metal-reinforced partials.

You might laso like our articles on the cost of denture relining, dentures in general, or snap-in dentures.

2. Cast Metal Framework With Resin Partial Dentures

• Metal (usually chrome cobalt) base provides structural rigidity
• Gum-shaded acrylic resin creates the visible teeth
• More complex manufacturing so higher cost, but added strength
• Cost range: $800 – $2500
• Lasts approximately 5-7+ years with maintenance

3. Flexible Partial Dentures

• Made from thin, translucent thermoplastic nylon resin
• Clasps lined with comfortable, flexible coils
• Conforms naturally to the mouth’s movements
• Cost range: $1000 – $2500
• Indicated for limited remaining teeth
• Lasts approximately 5-7 years

Flexible partials cost more but provide a comfortable, seamless fit. They’re geared for patients with very few remaining teeth.

4. Temporary or “Stayplate” Partial Dentures

• Short-term acrylic partials inserted immediately after extractions
• Lower cost, faster to make, but not intended for long-term wear
• Cost range: $300 – $900
• Lasts approximately 6-12 months

Immediate partial dentures offer temporary tooth replacement during healing. Cost varies based on fit, complexity, and materials.

As you can see, partial denture fees vary based on longevity expectations, materials, and design complexity. But many other factors also weigh into pricing.

What Impacts the Cost?

Several variables influence the final price quote from your dentist:

Number of Teeth Replaced – Replacing 6 missing teeth costs more in materials and effort than just 1 or 2 tooth gaps. Each additional tooth adds expense.

Design Complexity – Basic in-office acrylic partials cost less than elaborate cast metal partials requiring extensive impressions and custom fabrication by an outside dental lab.

Materials Used – Durable cast metal frames paired with resin teeth cost more than acrylic alone. But quality materials are an investment in long-term function.

Extent of Tooth Extractions – If teeth need removal prior to partial placement, surgical extraction fees add to the total cost.

Dentist Specialization – Prosthodontists and specialists with advanced skills in partials, dentures and implants charge higher rates than general dentists.

Dental Lab Involvement – Third-party labs that create casts, impressions and custom-milled frameworks charge fees that influence overall cost.

Location of Dental Practice – Like most healthcare services, urban clinics have higher overhead that increases pricing. Rural areas offer more affordable rates.

Geographic Location

Where you have partial dentures fabricated heavily influences the final bills. Prices often trend:

• Major Cities (New York, San Francisco): $800 – $2000+
• Suburban Areas: $500 – $1800
• Rural Small Towns: $300 – $1200

Lower rents and overhead allow rural or small-town dentists to charge less. Major metros with saturated amenities and wages face pricier business costs that translate into higher procedure fees.

Popular dental tourism destinations like Thailand and Mexico offer up to 50% savings but require international travel and have higher risk. When weighing options, look within driving distance.

What’s Included in The Costs?

The total price reflects multiple steps:

Initial Exam & Consultation – $75-$200 – Examines dental history, remaining teeth, takes x-rays, and discusses options.

Initial Impressions – $150-$250 – Molds the mouth, teeth, and gums to create a plaster model for device fabrication.

Tooth Extractions – $100-$250 per tooth – If extractions are needed before placing the partial denture.

Partial Fabrication – $250-$1500 – Lab uses impressions to fabricate device. Complex designs take more time.

Delivery, Fitting & Adjustments – $0-$300 – Ensures partials fit correctly over multiple visits and appointments.

Maintenance & Repairs – $100-$250 annually – Adjustments, relining, clasp repairs, and replacements over time.

Knowing the detailed cost structure allows accurate financial planning.

Insurance Reduces Out-of-Pocket Costs

If your dental insurance policy includes partial denture coverage, you can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs through:

• Coinsurance Coverage – Typically 50-80% coverage after deductible.
• Out-of-Network Reimbursement – Many insurers contribute a portion towards out-of-network dentists.
• Annual Maximum Allowances – Some policies have $500-$1500 in coverage maximums per year.
• Negotiated Dental Lab Fees – Contracted labs provide savings that insurance members access.

Always obtain a pretreatment estimate from the insurance company before agreeing to treatment. This step confirms your policy benefits and exactly how much insurance will contribute.

Financial Assistance Options

If uninsured or needing extra financial assistance, options include:

• Payment Plans – Many dental offices break costs into manageable monthly installments for patients. Low or no interest options are available based on credit.
• Third-Party Financing – Healthcare lending companies like CareCredit provide funding for procedures not fully covered by insurance. Quick approval decisions.
• Discount Dental Plans – Membership programs like DentalPlans.com provide 10-60% off partials and other dental care from partner providers.
• Dental Schools – Students and professors perform low-cost procedures under supervision, although wait times are longer.
• Community Clinics – Income-based clinics provide dental care on sliding-scale fees based on what you can afford.

With some good shopping and open communication, there are ways to secure affordable partial dentures within most budgets.

Global Price Variations

Partial denture costs also fluctuate country to country:

• United States – $500-$2000
• Canada – $800-$2000 CAD
• United Kingdom – £500-£1500
• Australia – $1000-$2500 AUD
• Mexico – $300-$800 USD (Significant savings but higher risk)
• Costa Rica, Thailand, Philippines – $200-$600 USD (Popular dental tourism destinations)

In most regions, partial denture costs remain lower than alternatives like dental implants or fixed bridges. But global cost of living, healthcare expenses, insurance systems, and labor rates impact pricing everywhere. Talk to your dentist to understand local rates.

Hidden Fees

Beyond the core partial denture costs, additional charges may include:

• Specialty dental cement for adhesion – $50-$100
• Premium fit guarantee – $100-$200
• Extended warranty protection plans – $100-$250
• Laboratory remakes for ill-fitting devices – $200-$500
• Cosmetic enhancements like characterizations – $50-$150 per tooth
• Overnight shipping for expedited cases – $150-$300

Read all policies carefully and avoid unclear fees, when possible, by asking detailed questions upfront.

Alternatives to Traditional Partial Dentures

Depending on your needs, discuss these options with your dentist as well:

Dental Implants – Better longevity and feel than partials, but higher upfront costs.

Dental Bridges – Fixed option but requires shaping healthy nearby teeth. Mixed cost-benefit.

Full Dentures – When all upper or lower teeth are already missing, a full denture may suffice.

Flippers – Low-cost temporary acrylic partials until a permanent solution. Short lifespan.

Dental Crowns – Where enough strong teeth remain, crowns maintain them vs. a partial.

There are always multiple solutions to explore. Talk through pros, cons and pricing with your dentist.

Final Words

Quality cast metal partials offer an ideal longevity-cost balance when properly crafted and maintained. Insurance, financing plans, bundling services, and asking for discounts can reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Weigh premium options vs budget quick-fixes to find the right long-term value balancing functionality and cost. With some good planning, achieving confidence and proper chewing ability remains accessible through partials, despite tooth loss.

Healthy, natural-looking smiles equipped for biting and chewing should never be cost prohibitive. Doing your homework on partial denture fees leads to optimal, personalized solutions.

Answers to Common Questions

Do partials need to be adjusted?

Yes, expect several follow-up visits after receiving partial dentures to ensure proper fit and comfort. As you adjust to wearing the device, minor realignments and occlusal adjustments may be needed, along with addressing any tissue irritation. Communicate openly about any areas feeling unnatural, which your dentist can then fix.

How can I make my partials fit better?

If experiencing discomfort, request your dentist make adjustments to clasp position, gum covering thickness, and tooth alignment. Using denture adhesives can also improve retention and stability. For sore spots, try OTC dental wax or adhesive cushions. Maintain excellent oral hygiene and clean partials daily.

How often do partials need to be replaced?

With good care, a quality partial denture should function well for 3-7 years. But they require maintenance. Expect to visit your dentist annually for assessments. Repairs, relining, and replacing broken parts extends lifespan. When fit, stability and chewing function decline due to bone loss, replacement is required, typically every 5-7 years.