Types of dentures: full, partial, flexible and implant-supported
A denture is a removable set of false teeth, but there are several kinds, and they differ in how they hold in, how they look, how long they last and what they cost. This guide explains each type of denture, compares them side by side with Healthpoint prices, and covers the costs that come after the first fitting.
The short answer
If you still have some of your own teeth, you need a partial denture: acrylic is the most affordable and easiest to repair, while a flexible denture has gum-coloured clasps that are harder to see. If you have no teeth left in a jaw, you need a full denture. Where a denture keeps slipping, implants can hold it firmly. At Healthpoint, partial dentures start from AED 250 plus AED 99 per tooth and full dentures from AED 1,499.
Side by side
| Acrylic partial | Flexible partial | Full denture | Implant-supported | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replaces | Some teeth | Some teeth | All teeth in a jaw | Several or all teeth |
| Held in by | Clasps on your own teeth | Gum-coloured clasps | A close fit to the gums | Two or more implants |
| Looks | Clasps may show | Clasps blend with the gum | Natural when well made | Natural when well made |
| Repairs and adding teeth | Easy | Harder | Easy | Depends on the design |
| Healthpoint price | From AED 250 plus AED 99 per tooth | From AED 400 plus from AED 99 per tooth | From AED 1,499 | Implants from AED 3,500 each, priced with your plan |
Starting prices. The dentist confirms your price after examining your mouth. See all denture prices.
Acrylic partial dentures
A pink acrylic base carries the replacement teeth, and small wire clasps hook around your natural teeth to hold it in place. Acrylic is rigid, so it is easy to repair, and if you lose another tooth later, a tooth can usually be added to the same denture. The clasps may show when you smile, depending on where they sit. At Healthpoint, an acrylic partial denture for one tooth starts from AED 349.
Flexible partial dentures
Flexible dentures are made from a thin, bendable nylon-type material, and the clasps are gum-coloured, so they blend in. Many people find them light and comfortable. They are harder to repair or add teeth to than acrylic, and some designs cannot be relined, so they may need replacing sooner if your mouth changes. At Healthpoint, a flexible partial denture for one tooth starts from AED 499.
Full dentures
A full denture replaces every tooth in the upper or lower jaw. An upper denture covers the roof of the mouth and usually holds well by suction. A lower denture sits on a narrower ridge of gum and moves with the tongue, so it is usually less stable, and it takes longer to get used to. A well-fitting full denture rarely needs adhesive, though some people like a little for confidence.
Implant-supported dentures
Two or more implants in the jaw hold the denture with small press-studs or a bar, so it clicks into place and does not slip when you eat or speak. This is especially helpful for a loose lower denture. It costs more and takes several months, because the implants need to heal first, and you need enough healthy bone.
Immediate and temporary dentures
If teeth need to be removed, the gums and bone change shape as they heal over about two to three months. An immediate denture is made before the extraction and fitted on the same day, so you are not left without teeth. It usually needs relining or replacing once the gums settle. Ask the dentist whether this suits you.
Costs after the first fitting
- Adjustments: sore spots in the first weeks are smoothed at follow-up visits.
- Relines: as your gums shrink over the years, the fitting surface is reshaped so the denture stays snug.
- Repairs: a crack or broken tooth can usually be fixed. At Healthpoint, repairs start from AED 149, including dentures made elsewhere.
- Replacement: many dentures last about five to ten years before a new one is needed.
Comparing a denture with a bridge or implant? Read dentures, bridges and implants compared.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of denture is the most comfortable?
It depends on your mouth. Many people find flexible partial dentures light and comfortable, and implant-supported dentures are the most stable. The dentist explains which suits you at your free consultation.
Can I switch from a partial denture to a full denture later?
Yes. If you lose more teeth, teeth can often be added to an acrylic partial denture. If all the teeth in a jaw are lost, you move to a full denture.
What is an immediate denture?
A denture made before your teeth are removed and fitted the same day, so you are not without teeth while the gums heal. It usually needs relining or replacing a few months later.
Are flexible dentures better than acrylic ones?
Neither is better for everyone. Flexible dentures look more natural and feel lighter, while acrylic dentures cost less and are easier to repair or add teeth to. The choice depends on your teeth, your budget and what matters most to you.
Medical review: to be completed by a Healthpoint dentist, whose name and title will be shown here. This guide is general information, not a diagnosis; your dentist will advise on your own teeth.