How Much Do Dentures Cost?

The cost of dentures is an important consideration for anyone exploring tooth replacement options. With the average price of a single dental implant exceeding $4,500 (≈1.7 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour), dentures can provide a more affordable solution to restore your smile. But how much do dentures really cost?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the various factors that influence denture pricing so you can make an informed decision about this common dental prosthetic.

Key Takeaways on Denture Costs

• Full dentures costs range from $1,200 - $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate
• Partial dentures cost $500 - $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate on average
• Customization level, materials, and added features impact prices
• Shop around between dental clinics for the best pricing
• Additional costs come from fittings, adjustments, and repairs over time
• Finance options can help offset the initial investment in your oral health
• Don't just choose the cheapest denture option, prioritize quality care from specialists for the best long-term dental health

How Much Do Dentures Cost?

When evaluating the cost of dentures, it’s helpful to understand that there are two main types: full and partial dentures. Full dentures are used when all teeth need to be replaced, while partial dentures fill the gaps when only several teeth are missing.

The material used to make the dentures, whether they are custom-designed or ready-made, and additional personalized features will impact the total costs. Standard dentures from a dental clinic can range from $500 - $2,000 (≈3.3 weeks trading your time for $15/hour) or more per plate, but customized options may be pricier.

Affordable Dentures & Implants, for example, offers comprehensive and customized treatment plans for any denture, dental implant, or dental procedure you may need. The website mentions that the cost of full dentures can range from $300 to $5,000 (≈1.9 months of your working life at $15/hour), depending on the materials used and the type of denture. They also offer a Best Price Guarantee.

Capron Park Dental provides information on the cost of dentures in Attleboro, MA. The website mentions that the cost of basic dentures per palate can range from $300 to $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour), while a full set can cost between $600 and $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour). The cost of a removable partial denture can range from $300 to $4,000 (≈1.5 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour), while an implant-supported denture can cost $3,500 (≈1.3 months trading your time for $15/hour) or more.

Aspen Dental offers affordable denture packages compared to leading competitive pricing. The website mentions that the cost of dentures can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on several factors, including the materials used, the type of dentures, the location, and the dental professional who is providing the service. The average market pricing is between $1,000-$3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per arch.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Dentures

Several factors affect how much you’ll pay for false teeth replacement. These include:

Type of Denture

Full dentures tend to be more expensive than partial dentures. A full upper or lower denture may cost $1,200 - $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate or set, while partial dentures range from $500 - $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate. This difference reflects the additional materials and effort involved in fully replacing missing teeth. However, partial denture costs can rise with the number of missing teeth and necessary clasps.

Material Used

Basic dentures are made from economical acrylic resins. Premium dentures may use stronger cobalt chromium materials or flexible nylon thermoplastic for a more comfortable, precise fit. These upgraded materials cost more, with nylon dentures priced between $1,500 - $3,500 (≈1.3 months trading your time for $15/hour) per plate.

Customization Level

Ready-made stock dentures offer the most affordable option at $300 - $1,000 (≈1.7 weeks working every single day at $15/hour) per plate, though the fit may not be ideal. Custom dentures made using your dental impressions provide a closer fit and usually range from $500 - $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate. Highly customized options with characterizations can cost over $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate.

Additional Options

Add-ons like tooth color matching, gold fillings, or implant attachments will raise the price. Lab fees for adjustments or repairs may cost $150 (≈1.3 days of continuous work at a $15/hour job) per hour. Same-day dentures utilize advanced techniques for fast fabrication, at a premium of $500 - $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate.

Clinic Location

Prices vary based on where you live. Dentures may cost less at dental schools ($300 - $1,000 (≈1.7 weeks working every single day at $15/hour) per plate) or clinics abroad ($300 - $800 (≈1.3 weeks working without a break on a $15/hour salary) per plate). Major metropolitan clinics charge higher rates.

Factors Affecting Dental Insurance Coverage

Many dental insurance plans help lower denture costs by offering partial coverage. Policies with 50% coverage may reduce your out-of-pocket cost to $750 - $1,750 (≈2.9 weeks working without a break on a $15/hour salary) per plate. Maximum annual benefits, deductibles, and frequency limitations can impact coverage.

You might also like our articles about the cost of tooth extractions, dental crowns, or braces.

Cosmetic options and upgrades may not be covered. Government programs like Medicaid may fully or partially cover dentures for qualifying individuals. Shop policies carefully and confirm details with your dental provider before committing to treatment.

Comparing Denture Costs at Different Dental Clinics

The total price you pay can vary significantly depending on the dental provider. Here are some typical costs:

• Dental schools and universities: $300 - $1,000 (≈1.7 weeks working every single day at $15/hour) per plate
• Low-cost dental clinics: $500 - $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate
• Established private practices: $1,500 - $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) per plate
• Prestigious practices with specialists: $3,000 - $10,000+ (≈3.8 months working without a break on a $15/hour salary) per plate

When researching options, look for an experienced prosthodontist who specializes in dentures and will provide the quality and expertise to merit the price. Be wary of clinics offering extremely cheap dentures, as poor fit and uncomfortable materials may result. Thoroughly vet potential dentists on factors beyond just price.

Additional Expenses Associated with Dentures

Beyond the upfront costs of the dentures themselves, there are recurring expenses to factor into your budget.

• Initial denture fittings: $0 - $500 (≈4.2 days of your career at $15/hour) per plate
• Adjustments: Usually covered under warranty at first, then $150 (≈1.3 days of continuous work at a $15/hour job) per hour
• Relines (resurfacing interiors): $150 - $350 (≈2.9 days working without breaks at $15/hour) per plate every 3-5 years
• Rebases (reinforcing bases): $300 - $500 (≈4.2 days of your career at $15/hour) per plate every 5-7 years
• Replacement: New dentures needed every 5-10 years

Regular dental visits, denture cleaning solutions, and adhesives can also amount to $500+ (≈4.2 days of your career at $15/hour) per year in supplies and maintenance costs. Be prepared to spend money over the long run to keep dentures functioning properly and your mouth healthy.

Payment Plans and Financing Options

The upfront costs of dentures may seem daunting. But securing financing can help make this important dental treatment more affordable.

Many dental clinics offer payment plans to pay over 6-12 months. Third-party medical financing companies like CareCredit provide specialized credit cards with deferred or fixed-rate promotional financing plans spanning up to 60 months for healthcare procedures (approval required). Most general credit cards have high interest rates making them unsuitable for large medical purchases.

Dental schools and clinics, government grant programs, and nonprofit organizations catering to underinsured patients may offer discounted or free dentures based on financial need. Shop around and explore every option if affordability is your main concern.

Ongoing Costs to Maintain Your Oral Health

Once you obtain dentures, proper maintenance and care is essential for your long-term oral health and to get the most value from your investment. Be prepared to spend money on:

• Professional cleanings & exams: $70 - $200 per visit, 2x/year
• Denture cleansing solutions: $8 - $30 per month
• Adhesives: $5 - $20 per month
• Brushes & storage containers: $10 - $75+ one-time costs
• Repairs for broken/damaged dentures: $150 - $300 per incident

Replacing dentures after 5-10 years of use is also recommended as the fit and bite alignment change over time with bone and gum reshaping. Taking excellent care of your dentures and maintaining meticulous oral hygiene can help minimize future costs and dental problems.

The Bottom Line: Understand All Costs But Don't Sacrifice Quality

Getting dentures can represent a significant financial investment. Full dentures often exceed $1,000 per plate, with partials being somewhat more affordable. Many factors impact the total costs, ranging from materials used to custom features and clinic choice. Additional expenses will accumulate over time for maintenance and repairs.

While cheaper dentures may be tempting, sacrificing quality for low prices is risky. Investing in the best possible dentures for your needs from a skilled provider will pay dividends through better oral health and less expense down the road. Do your research and prepare for all costs. With realistic expectations about both pricing and maintenance, you can make a confident decision about dentures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

How much do the best dentures cost?

The best quality dentures are custom-designed by skilled prosthodontists and use high-grade materials like porcelain or cobalt chromium. These premium dentures tend to cost $2,500 - $5,000 per plate or more. The investment pays off through better fit, comfort, durability, and oral health over cheaply-made basic dentures.

How many teeth do you need for dentures?

For full dentures, you need all teeth in the upper or lower jaw extracted. Partial dentures require the extraction of just several failing teeth, with healthy remaining teeth acting as anchors. The number of missing teeth drives partial denture complexity and cost.

Can you sleep with dentures?

Many people can comfortably sleep with dentures in place. However, removing dentures at night is recommended to give your mouth a rest. Sleeping without dentures allows your gums to relax after compression all day. Be sure to store dentures overnight in water or a cleansing solution to keep them from warping.