Unbiased oral health information

Procedures

Removable dentures

Consumer information

Dentures, removable
Relative cost of procedure ($ - $$$$$)
Relative cost of procedure ($-$$$$$)
$$$$$ (per denture, upper or lower.)
Time commitment (average)
Time commitment (average)
4 to 5 visits; 30 minutes to 1 hour each. Can be done in as few as 2 visits, with possible compromises.
Temporary discomfort potential
Temporary discomfort potential
Denture sores may occur following delivery; pain may be significant for new denture wearers, especially for immediate dentures (delivered the day teeth are removed)
Cosmetic results (how it looks)
Cosmetic results (how it looks)
Can be excellent, depending on how many teeth are being replaced and where they are in the mouth. Complete dentures are often very esthetic.
Wear properties
Wear properties
Acrylic denture teeth can wear more rapidly than porcelain ones, but generally offer acceptable service life for the cost.
Irreversible pulpitis/infection potential
Irreversible pulpitis/infection potential
Low to moderate. Depends on patient compliance and individual risk factors as well as whether teeth were removed at the time of denture delivery.
Fracture resistance
Fracture resistance
Dentures can fracture, but generally do not, due to reduced chewing forces. They can be reinforced with metal, fiberglass or other frameworks.
Tooth reduction (amount required)
Tooth reduction (amount required)
Partial dentures may need to be anchored to teeth. Minimal reduction is usually necessary. Some anchor teeth (abutments) require crowns.
Corrosion, metal sensitivity/allergy potential
Corrosion, metal sensitivity/allergy potential
Corrosion is usually not an issue, but allergies to metal reinforcing frameworks are not uncommon.
Soft tissue irritation potential
Soft tissue irritation potential
Above average