Dentures are removable false teeth made of plastic or metal frameworks that fit over the gums. They are used to replace missing teeth and restore chewing ability and a natural smile. Dentures are custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth. The cost of dentures varies depending on the type, materials used and dental office fees for fittings and adjustments.
How much are dentures? This is a common question for those considering getting dentures to replace their missing natural teeth. The costs can range widely based on many factors. Understanding the components that influence the price can help when budgeting for this dental work.
Getting dentures can be an expensive but often necessary dental treatment. Prices are affected by the type of dentures chosen, such as full or partial dentures, the materials used, additional procedures needed, and dental office charges. On average, basic full dentures can start around $300 to $3,000 per arch while more complex dentures with advanced materials can be $10,000 or more. Many dental insurance plans provide some coverage for dentures.
Dentures Cost On Average
The average cost of dentures ranges from $400 to $8,000 for a full set, with partial dentures typically costing between $1,400 and $1,800 on average. The cost varies significantly based on the type of denture, materials used, Implant Supported Dentures required procedures before getting fitted, and additional customization.
What Is The Average Cost Of Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures range in cost from $1,400 to $1,800 on average. The most affordable are acrylic partials starting around $1,400. Metal partials are more durable but cost about $1,800 on average. Premium flexible partials provide comfort with an average cost of $1,700.
What Is The Average Cost Of Full Dentures?
Full dentures replacing all upper or lower teeth range in cost from $400 on the low end up to $8,000 for more complex cases requiring additional procedures. The average cost for a basic set starts around $1,000 to $3,000.
How Does The Type Of Denture Material Impact Cost?
The materials used in manufacturing dentures significantly impacts the cost. Basic acrylic is the most affordable option. Cast metal or flexible resin materials that are more durable or comfortable cost more. Customization with premium materials drives up the cost.
What Additional Costs Are Associated With Dentures?
Additional costs with dentures include extractions for unhealthy teeth, cleaning supplies and denture adhesives, repairs as needed over time, re-lining to refit the dentures, and replacement every 5-10 years as they wear down. Regular dental checkups are also recommended for maintaining dentures.
Factors Influence The Price Of Dentures
Factors that influence the price of dentures include preparatory work needed before fitting, the type of denture selected, the materials used in the dentures, and the qualifications and experience of the dental specialist. Below is a table summarizing these factors:
| Factor | Description |
| Preparatory Work | Procedures like extractions or periodontal therapy before fitting dentures can increase costs. |
| Type of Denture | Options include partial, full, or implant-supported dentures, each varying in price. |
| Materials | High-quality materials like porcelain or premium acrylics cost more but offer better durability and aesthetics. |
| Specialists | The expertise of the dentist, such as a periodontist, can affect the price due to their specialized skills. |
These factors collectively determine the overall cost of obtaining dentures, which can range significantly based on individual needs and choices.
How Does The Complexity Of The Dental Work Impact Denture Costs?
If a patient requires significant dental work before getting fitted for dentures, such as extractions of remaining damaged teeth or bone grafting to strengthen the jaw bone, the complexity of required procedures directly increases overall costs.
The more involved the preliminary dental work prior to impressions and denture fabrication, the higher the total expenses become. Some patients may also need multiple fittings and adjustments until the dentures are optimized for comfort and function, especially if they are new denture wearers.
All these additional appointments and procedures related to complex dental care contribute to escalating costs compared to more straightforward denture cases needing less ancillary work.
How Do Dentists Set Their Denture Prices?
Dentists consider numerous factors when pricing dentures for patients. These include the cost of materials, with more advanced materials being pricier; laboratory expenses to fabricate the dentures; the dentist’s level of skill and expertise in fitting and creating dentures; overhead expenses of running a practice; and regional average pricing rates compared to other dentists in the geographic area.
Some dentists offer different tiers of dentures at different price points based on the quality of materials used and precision of fabrication. Dentists balance covering their own costs while keeping prices affordable for patients, aiming for reasonable profits. Discounts through dental insurance plans also influence pricing strategies.
When Are Dentures More Expensive?
Dentures tend to be most expensive when they are full dentures replacing all upper or lower teeth rather than partial dentures replacing just a few missing teeth. Custom dentures made from premium materials like porcelain are more costly than basic acrylic resin dentures.
Advanced digital scanning technology to ensure a perfect fit also comes at a higher price. Attachments to stabilize dentures like implants or precision attachments raise costs further.
Finally, if multiple preparatory procedures like extractions, bone grafting, or gum disease treatment are needed beforehand, total costs are higher as well. The more complex the case and denture type, the more expensive replacement teeth become.
Can I Get Cheap Dentures?
The least expensive denture option is “economy” or “discount dentures”, which cost between $500-$1500 per full or partial set. However, cheaper dentures made from basic acrylic with standardized sizes and shapes often don’t fit very well.
This can cause discomfort, damage gum tissue over time, and lead to a premature need for replacement. So while seemingly affordable initially, getting lower quality yet cheaper dentures could mean paying more money and undergoing more frequent procedures in the long run.
For a balance of affordability and quality, mid-range dentures for $1500-$3000 made from durable resin with a customized fit tend to provide the best value for most patients.
Dentures From A Denturist Or Dentist
Both dentists and denturists can provide high-quality dentures, but they have different expertise. Denturists specialize in making and fitting dentures, while dentists can diagnose oral health issues and prepare the mouth for dentures. Getting a denture evaluation from both providers ensures your mouth is healthy for dentures and that they fit properly.
How Much Do Denturists Charge For Dentures?
The cost of dentures from a denturist ranges from $1,000-$3,000 for a complete upper and lower set. Partial dentures are $500-$1,500 from a denturist. As specialists, denturists may offer more affordable pricing than general dentists for dentures.
What Is The Cost Difference Between A Dentist And Denturist?
Dentists typically charge 20-60% more for dentures than denturists. For example, a full upper and lower denture set could cost $2,000-$4,500 from a dentist compared to $1,000-$3,000 from a denturist. This cost difference comes from the denturist’s specialization in dentures.
Who Offers High Quality Affordable Dentures?
Both properly trained and licensed denturists and dentists can provide high quality dentures. Denturists frequently offer more affordable pricing due to specializing specifically in dentures rather than overall oral health like dentists. Evaluating expertise, training, and pricing helps find the right balance of quality and cost.
What Credentials Should My Denture Provider Have?
The denture provider should have a denturist license/certification showing specialized training in making and fitting dentures. Dentists should have a DDS/DMD doctorate degree. Ensure any denture provider has proper accredited training and expertise specifically for dentures.
Are There Ways To Reduce The Costs Of Getting Dentures?
Yes, there are several ways to reduce the costs of getting dentures. The first is to shop around and get quotes from multiple dentists, as prices can vary widely. Consider getting dentures made at a dental school, where procedures are done by students under supervision at reduced rates.
Also, choose more affordable materials like plastic teeth and acrylic bases instead of porcelain teeth and metal bases. Finally, take good care of your dentures to increase their longevity and avoid frequent replacements.
Can Dental Insurance Lower My Denture Expenses?
Dental insurance can significantly offset denture expenses, typically covering 50% of the cost for this major procedure. However, annual maximums usually only reach around $1,500, while a full set of dentures often exceeds $2,500. So insurance will cut your out-of-pocket costs in half but won’t cover the full amount.
Using your insurance strategically by timing dentures in a year when you haven’t maxed benefits on other dental work is key to maximizing coverage. Also inquire if related procedures like extractions or implants have better coverage rates than dentures alone.
Are There Government Programs To Assist With Denture Costs?
Certain government assistance programs can help lower denture costs for those who meet income eligibility requirements. Medicaid provides dental coverage, including dentures, for qualifying low-income individuals.
And the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers dental care, possibly including complete or partial dentures, to eligible veterans. Additionally, some non-profit organizations and dental schools with training clinics provide discounted or free dentures to those in need.
Checking if any of these options are available in your state or region can help significantly reduce out-of-pocket denture expenses.
What Kind Of Denture Payment Plans Are Available?
Many dental offices offer in-house payment plans to spread out denture costs over time. Typically a down payment is required, followed by monthly installments over 6 to 24 months depending on the total cost. Interest may or may not be charged.
Third party medical credit cards like CareCredit also allow paying for dentures and other treatments via fixed monthly payments over longer terms ranging from 2 to 5 years. Promotional financing offers like deferred or no interest plans are sometimes available too. These payment options make dentures more affordable by avoiding paying the full amount upfront.
Can I Save Money By Traveling Abroad For Dentures?
Dentures performed by licensed dentists abroad can cost 50-75% less than in the U.S. Countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, and Thailand are popular dental tourism destinations for procedures like dentures. However, additional costs for travel and lodging can offset some savings. And follow-up care would require an extra trip.
Still, the total savings from foreign dentures can be substantial even after travel expenses. Just be sure to do thorough research to find an experienced, accredited dentist to perform quality care. Weigh the pros and cons before traveling internationally specifically to save money on dentures.
Budget And Plan For Denture Expenses
I can budget for dentures by researching typical costs, which range from $1,000-$3,000 for a set, with $500-$1,500 for one plate. I should account for x-rays, fittings, extractions or other preparatory procedures. I can use online cost estimators and call local dentists and denturists to estimate expenses.
How Much Should I Expect To Pay Out-Of-Pocket For Dentures?
Out-of-pocket costs for a set of mid-priced dentures typically range from $1,000-$3,000, with insurance covering about half. Individual denture plates average $500-$1,500. Partial dentures and implants have additional costs. I should thoroughly review dental plan coverage and limitations.
Steps Can I Take To Finance Dentures
5 steps you can take to finance dentures
- Check if your dental insurance covers any part of the cost. Many plans cover a percentage, such as 50%, for dentures.
- Ask your dentist if they offer in-house payment plans to spread out the cost over 6-12 months. Often no credit check or interest is required.
- Apply for third party medical financing through providers like CareCredit. This allows fixed monthly payments over longer terms like 2-5 years, often with no interest promotional offers.
- Look into government or non-profit assistance programs like Medicaid and dental schools with clinics, which provide discounted or free dentures for those who qualify.
- Consider dental tourism for significantly lower prices – travel to countries like Thailand or Costa Rica to get quality dentures made for half the cost or less. Just factor in travel expenses.
I hope these give you some good options to explore for financing dentures and making them more affordable! The key is to break up the payments over time or utilize reduced-cost resources.
Over What Timeframe Should I Budget For Denture Payments?
Most personal loans allow 1-7 years for repayment. Some dentists allow 12-24 month payment plans. I should choose the longest term affordable to keep payments low, usually 24 months. Crowdfunding campaigns typically run 2-3 months.
Are There Non-Profits That Help With Denture Costs?
Yes, organizations like Dental Lifeline Network, Missions of Mercy, and Dentaid offer financial aid or sliding-scale payments for dentures. Eligibility is based on age, disability, income level or other criteria. Charities can reduce out-of-pocket denture costs significantly.
Frequently Asked Question
What Is The Average Cost For A Full Set Of Dentures?
The average cost for a full set of dentures is $1,500-$3,000.
Do Prices Vary Between Dentists And Denturists?
Yes, dentists typically charge more than denturists for dentures.
Is One Type Of Denture Material Cheaper Than Others?
Yes, acrylic dentures tend to be the most affordable denture option.
Can I Use Insurance To Help Pay For Dentures?
Dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost of dentures.
Are There Any Low-Cost Denture Options?
Some dental schools and clinics offer reduced cost dentures.
Conclusion
Getting dentures can be an expensive endeavor. A full set of dentures typically costs $1,000-$3,000, with a single denture plate running $500-$1,500. Additional expenses like x-rays, fittings, tooth extractions, and adjustments can also add to the total costs.
There are ways to reduce denture expenses for those in financial need. Checking if dental insurance covers some costs, using medical credit cards, getting quotes from dental schools, and looking into state programs, charity care, and payment plans can make dentures more affordable.
 Setting aside emergency savings and budgeting specifically for oral health costs allows for better planning when considering this essential dental treatment. Being informed on approximate denture pricing and financing options is key to accessing this care.
