10 Types of Dentures and How to Care For Them

Missing teeth can make everyday activities like eating, speaking, and smiling feel less comfortable. Dentures can restore function and confidence by replacing missing teeth, helping you return to daily routines with greater ease. 

Whether considering dentures for yourself or helping a loved one, knowing your options is an essential first step.

There are many types of dentures available. Each offers unique benefits for different needs, from full and partial dentures to flexible and permanent styles.

We’ll outline the main types of dentures and compare their features to give you a clear overview. With this information, you can feel more confident as you explore the best options for comfort, function, and daily life.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable replacement teeth designed to restore your smile and improve chewing and speaking when natural teeth are missing. 

They are custom-made to match the shape and colour of your gums and natural teeth, helping to support facial structure and enhance your appearance. Dentures are a common, effective solution for tooth loss caused by age, injury, or dental disease.

The 7 Main Types of Dentures Explained

Dentures are custom-designed to replace missing teeth, whether in the upper or lower jaw, and come in various forms made from different materials to provide support, functionality, and a natural appearance. 

Choosing the right type of denture depends on several factors, including your oral health, lifestyle, and comfort preferences. 

Below is an overview of the most common types of dentures to help guide your decision.

1. Full (Complete) Dentures

Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. These dentures are typically recommended when all natural teeth have been lost due to age, disease, or injury. 

Constructed from acrylic resin or porcelain with a gum-colored base, full dentures rest directly on the gums and are removable for cleaning and sleeping. 

They restore essential functions such as chewing and speaking, provide facial muscle support for a fuller appearance, and require denture adhesive for additional stability. Although complete dentures are removable, some people may prefer fixed bridge options for a non-removable solution.

2. Partial Dentures

Partial dentures serve as replacement teeth when you still have some natural teeth. They come in removable or fixed forms. Removable partial dentures typically feature a gum-colored base with metal clasps or precision attachments that anchor to existing teeth, preventing shifting and maintaining proper alignment. 

Fixed partial dentures, often called fixed bridges, are permanently cemented and not removable. Flexible dentures, a subtype of partials, are made from lightweight nylon or thermoplastic materials that adapt closely to the gums. 

These flexible dentures lack metal components, offering extra comfort and a less noticeable appearance, especially for those with sensitive gums.

3. Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures provide extra stability by anchoring to titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. 

This connection helps preserve bone tissue and delivers a secure foundation for either removable or fixed dentures. Implant-supported dentures can be fixed permanently or designed to snap on for convenient removal. 

These dentures combine the benefits of denture adhesives with the security of implants, allowing wearers to enjoy improved function during eating and speaking without sacrificing removability for cleaning. 

This option is ideal for individuals seeking long-term comfort and enhanced support.

4. Flexible Dentures

Flexible dentures are a modern alternative to traditional partial dentures, crafted from lightweight, durable materials such as nylon or thermoplastic resin. 

Unlike conventional dentures that use rigid acrylic bases and metal clasps, flexible dentures feature a soft, gum-coloured base that closely adapts to the contours of your mouth, providing a more comfortable and natural fit.

Because they lack metal components, flexible dentures are less visible and cause less irritation, making them especially suitable for people with sensitive gums or allergies to certain metals. Their flexibility allows for easier insertion and removal, reducing the risk of breakage compared to traditional dentures.

While flexible dentures are removable and require regular cleaning, their resilience and comfort make them an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking a discreet, comfortable way to replace missing teeth without compromising function or appearance.

5. Immediate Dentures

Immediate dentures act as temporary dentures placed immediately after tooth extraction, ensuring you never go without replacement teeth during the healing process. 

They support the facial muscles and maintain appearance while gum and bone tissue heal. 

Since immediate dentures are removable and the mouth changes shape during recovery, adjustments are often necessary before transitioning to a more permanent set of custom dentures.

6. Snap-On Dentures

Snap-on dentures offer a hybrid solution combining removability with the extra stability of dental implants. These dentures securely attach to implants in the jaw via special connectors, allowing them to stay firmly in place during daily activities but still be removed easily for cleaning or overnight wear. 

Snap-on dentures are a popular choice for those seeking a stable yet flexible option that avoids the permanence of fixed dentures.

4 Other Specialized Denture Types

In some cases, standard dentures may not fully meet a patient’s unique needs, which is where specialized denture options come into play. These alternatives address specific situations by offering enhanced stability, comfort, or affordability:

• Overdentures fit over a few remaining natural teeth or dental implants, providing extra support and improved retention compared to traditional dentures.
• Flipper dentures are lightweight, temporary partial dentures commonly used during healing phases or to fill small gaps while waiting for a permanent solution.
• Economy dentures offer a basic, cost-effective option with a straightforward fit for those seeking a temporary or budget-friendly replacement.
• Custom and hybrid dentures combine advanced materials and techniques to deliver a highly personalized fit or integrate features from multiple denture types, catering to more complex oral health needs.

Each of these specialized dentures serves different lifestyles and dental requirements. Discussing these options with your dentist can help you choose the best combination of comfort, appearance, and function for your daily life.

Comparing Denture Types: Pros, Cons, and Suitability

Understanding how different types of dentures compare helps you choose the right fit for your needs. Each option has strengths and tradeoffs related to comfort, maintenance, cost, and appearance. Here’s a clear look at how the most common denture types measure up in daily life.

Full (Complete) Dentures

• Pros: Replace all teeth in an arch, restore function and facial shape, often most affordable for full replacement, adaptable for many people.
• Cons: Can feel less stable without adhesive, may take time to adjust, can require relining over time.
• Best For: People with total tooth loss in the upper or lower jaw who want a non-surgical, removable solution.

Partial Dentures

• Pros: Fill gaps when some natural teeth remain, prevent shifting, easier to repair or adjust, often budget-friendly.
• Cons: Clasps may show, may feel bulky at first, less secure than implants.
• Best For: Those with several missing teeth spread across one arch, or when preserving existing teeth is important.

Implant-Supported Dentures

• Pros: Very stable and secure, supports a healthy jawbone, feels more like natural teeth, allows for stronger chewing.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, needs surgery, longer healing period.
• Best For: People seeking long-term stability and comfort, especially those with good bone health.

Flexible Dentures

• Pros: Lightweight, bend for comfort, blend with gums, resistant to breakage.
• Cons: Not suited for all cases, can stain if not cleaned well, limited repair options.
• Best For: Partial tooth loss, sensitive gums, or those unable to tolerate rigid models.

What Are Dentures Made Of? Materials and Durability

Dentures use several materials to balance appearance, comfort, and long-term wear. The most common materials include acrylic resin, porcelain, metal, nylon, and thermoplastic.

Each material offers different strengths, whether you need a lightweight partial or a full set that looks and feels natural.

Acrylic Resin and Porcelain

Acrylic resin is a popular choice for full dentures. It is lightweight, affordable, and easy to adjust if your mouth changes over time. Porcelain is often used for denture teeth because it looks very similar to natural enamel. 

Porcelain is durable and resists stains, though it can feel heavier than acrylic and may chip if dropped.

Metal and Flexible Options

Partial dentures often contain a metal framework, usually cobalt-chrome, which provides strength and a slim profile. Flexible dentures use nylon or thermoplastic for a softer, lightweight feel that adapts to your mouth. These materials blend in with your gums and are less likely to cause irritation.

Material choice affects daily care. Acrylic and flexible dentures are light and budget-friendly but may stain if not cleaned regularly. 

Porcelain and metal options last longer and resist wear, but they can cost more. Discuss with your dentist which material matches your comfort, look, and lifestyle needs.

Caring for Your Dentures

Proper care is essential to keeping your dentures comfortable, functional, and long-lasting. Good hygiene and maintenance habits also support overall oral health.

• Daily cleaning: Clean your dentures daily to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled denture brush or a regular soft toothbrush with mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch denture surfaces.
• Handling with care: Dentures are durable but can break if dropped. When cleaning, hold them over a folded towel or a basin filled with water to prevent damage in case of slips.
• Soaking overnight: Most removable dentures must be soaked overnight in a denture cleaning solution or plain water to keep them moist and maintain their shape. Avoid hot water, which can warp dentures.
• Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for denture adjustments, repairs, and oral exams. Proper fit may change over time due to natural changes in your gums and jawbone, so professional care ensures comfort and prevents complications.
• Avoiding harmful habits: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or boiling water on your dentures. Also, resist chewing hard foods or sticky substances that could damage or dislodge your dentures.

With consistent care and attention, your dentures can provide a comfortable fit and help maintain good oral health for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

If you still have questions about dentures, this FAQ covers some of the most common ones to help you find the necessary information.

How many teeth do dentures replace?

Dentures can replace anywhere from a single missing tooth to all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw, depending on the type you need. Complete dentures replace all teeth in a jaw, while partial dentures fill in gaps left by several missing teeth.

How long do dentures last?

With proper care, dentures typically last 5 to 10 years. Over time, changes in your gums and jawbone may require adjustments, relining, or replacement to maintain a good fit.

Will dentures affect my speech?

Initially, dentures may cause slight changes in speech or a lisp as your mouth adjusts. With practice and time, most users regain clear and natural speech.

Can I sleep with my dentures in?

It’s generally recommended that dentures be removed before sleeping to allow your gums to rest and reduce the risk of infections or irritation.

Get Fitted for Your Perfect Smile

Choosing the right type of dentures is important for restoring your smile, improving oral function, and maintaining overall oral health. 

Whether you need complete dentures, partial options, or implant-supported solutions, understanding the differences and considering your preferences and needs will help you find the most comfortable fit. 

Consulting with your dentist will ensure you receive a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique situation. For more information on dentures and oral care, explore Sunbit’s local directory of trusted dentists and take the next step toward a confident, healthy smile.