PARTIAL DENTURES: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

Upper and/or lower partial dentures are designed to fill the gap created by missing teeth so you can smile without having to worry about a thing. Partials can be unclipped and removed if wanted, including overnight, and can help you feel more confident if you are missing a small number of teeth.

Find out everything you need to know about partial dentures for your front teeth and other areas of your mouth, the different types of partial dentures available, what they might cost, and the materials they’re usually made from, in this guide.

TYPES OF PARTIAL DENTURES

There are several different types of partial dentures to replace missing teeth. Read about some of your options below, but bear in mind that you’ll need to discuss which type will work best for your mouth with your dentist. For example, metal-based partial dentures are stronger and lighter in most cases, so if you need a partial denture for your front teeth, this may be the best option. Get an expert opinion from your dentist on which type to use.¹

METAL FRAMEWORK PARTIAL DENTURES

Metal framework partial dentures feature clasps that can attach onto natural teeth, keeping them in place and helping you feel secure.

Slight movement in these partial dentures should be expected, even when your gums and bone tissue have time to get used to them, although you may feel more comfortable talking to your dentist about this.

ACRYLIC REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURES

Some partial dentures are made almost entirely of acrylic and are also known as plastic dentures.

Just like metal framework dentures, acrylic dentures have wire clasps that attach to remaining natural teeth. These are generally used as a cost-effective alternative to metal-based partial dentures. They can also be used for transitional dentures, if you’re expecting to have additional prosthetic treatments, such as implants, in the future.

You may also want to choose flexible dentures, which your dentist will be able to advise you on.

FLEXIBLE PARTIAL DENTURES

Flexible dentures are designed to perfectly fit the shape of your mouth and remaining teeth firmly, so no clasps are needed. They’re slightly stretchy and ‘flex’ into position when inserted into the mouth.² This type of denture is therefore a great option for those who find clasps irritating. Many patients find that flexible dentures offer a close, comfortable fit with minimal issues.³

Learn more about flexible dentures on our ‘What are Flexible Dentures?’ page.

WHAT DO PARTIAL DENTURES COST IN THE UK?

The cost of getting a partial denture in the UK depends on many factors, including how many teeth the denture is replacing, the material it’s made from, and whether you go to an NHS or a private dentist. If you have dental insurance, check what your policy covers – it’s likely that partial dentures are covered in some form, but there may be restrictions on whether you can be treated by the NHS.⁴

On the NHS, partial dentures come under Band 3 dental treatment, which in England currently costs £282.80 and in Wales costs £203. In Northern Ireland and Scotland, you will need to pay 80% of the cost up to a maximum of £384.⁵

By going private, you may get more options as far as materials and how natural your denture will look than if you get it done on the NHS, although private dental work is more expensive.⁶ A partial denture made and fitted privately can cost anywhere between £250 and £2000, depending on where you go, how many teeth are being replaced, and choice of materials.⁷ 

HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR PARTIAL DENTURE

There are a few things you must do to keep your denture in tip-top condition, so it won’t negatively impact your oral health or have to be repaired or replaced until necessary. Here are some ways to take care of your partial denture and ensure it stays useable for longer:

KEEP YOUR DENTURE MOIST TO RETAIN ITS SHAPE

Always keep your denture moist while you’re not wearing it – either in water, a polythene bag containing damp cotton wool, or in an overnight cleaning solution. This prevents your partial denture from drying out, which can cause it to change shape.⁸

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR PARTIAL DENTURE

It’s important to take good care of them so they stay fresh and comfortable in your mouth. Adopting a daily cleaning regime is important to keep them looking their best.

Brushing your partial dentures using a special soft-bristled brush will help ensure you give your dentures a thorough clean and get rid of any leftover debris.

Clean your partial denture as often as you would your natural teeth – twice a day. Unclean dentures can lead to problems like bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and oral thrush. Brush them with toothpaste or soap and water before soaking in cleaning solution, like Poligrip 3-Minute Daily Cleanser for Dentures. Afterwards, gently brush them again before reinserting them.⁹

If you use a Poligrip denture adhesive, you should remove it from your denture every evening using soap and water. You can remove any remnants from your mouth using a clean damp flannel or damp kitchen roll.¹⁰

HANDLE YOUR DENTURE WITH CARE

Dropping your partial denture can cause it to break, leaving you with a bill for repair or replacement. To avoid this, always clean your partial denture over a sink or bowl full of water, or a clean towel, so it has a soft landing if it slips out of your hands.¹¹

DON’T NEGLECT YOUR ORAL HEALTH

Caring for your natural teeth and gums is a huge part of caring for your partial denture. Looking after your mouth means your remaining teeth and gums provide a strong and healthy foundation for your denture and help prevent further tooth loss.¹² If you notice you have bad breath, bleeding gums, or signs of gum disease, visit your dentist immediately for advice.¹³

Sources:

1. DentalHealth.org. Bridges and partial dentures. https://www.dentalhealth.org/bridges-and-partial-dentures. Accessed 02/11/2021.
2. Dentures.org.uk. Flexible Dentures. https://www.dentures.org.uk/flexible-dentures/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
3. Dentures.org.uk. Flexible Dentures. https://www.dentures.org.uk/flexible-dentures/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
4. Dentaly.org. What Do Partial Dentures Cost in the UK? Guide to Different Types. https://www.dentaly.org/en/dentures-false-teeth/partial-dentures-cost/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
5. Dentaly.org. What Do Partial Dentures Cost in the UK? Guide to Different Types. https://www.dentaly.org/en/dentures-false-teeth/partial-dentures-cost/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
6. Dentaly.org. What Do Partial Dentures Cost in the UK? Guide to Different Types. https://www.dentaly.org/en/dentures-false-teeth/partial-dentures-cost/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
7. Dentaly.org. What Do Partial Dentures Cost in the UK? Guide to Different Types. https://www.dentaly.org/en/dentures-false-teeth/partial-dentures-cost/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
8. NHS. Dentures (false teeth). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
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10. NHS. Dentures (false teeth). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
11. NHS. Dentures (false teeth). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/. Accessed 02/11/2021.
12. DentalHealth.org. Dentures. https://www.dentalhealth.org/dentures. Accessed 02/11/2021.
13. NHS. Dentures (false teeth). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/. Accessed 02/11/2021.