How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Dentures remain one of the most popular solutions for people who have lost their teeth to gum disease, decay, or injuries.
Using the umbrella term ‘dentures’ could be considered a little reductionist, as dentures come in different materials and types and, of course, have variable price tags depending on a range of factors.
But before we explore the variety of factors that determine the cost of dentures, what exactly are they?
What are dentures?
Dentures are a way to replace missing teeth. They are custom-made using moulds or scans of your teeth and can be removed at home for cleaning.
There are 2 main kinds of dentures
Partial Dentures: Replacing a few missing teeth.
Complete Dentures: Replacing a whole arch of missing teeth.
Dentures can also be made from 2 main materials:
Cobalt Chrome: A premium denture material made from a thin yet robust metal allow. These dentures are thin, light and long-lasting and can include several retentive features that help them stay in place
Acrylic: A cheaper plastic material usually more prone to damage than Cobalt Chrome and is often less comfortable than chrome cobalt dentures.
How much do dentures cost?
On the NHS: Dentures costs £319.10. This is a fixed denture price which can be for a single set, a complete set and will include any extractions and examinations that you need as well
Private:
A single arch of acrylic dentures will cost from £500 - £1500
A single arch of chrome cobalt dentures from £1000 - £3000
Private dentures vary in price depending on the skill of the dentist and the quality of the dental lab they are using. A high-quality dental lab will make dentures that look natural, as if you never had your teeth replaced in the first place.
Cobalt chrome dentures are usually not available on the NHS.
Let’s explore the variety of factors that determine these costs. We’ll also take a look at the alternative tooth replacement solutions available.
Which factors determine the cost of dentures?
Private vs NHS.
The type of dentures needed.
The materials used to create the dentures.
The skill of the dentist creating your dentures.
The quality of the dental lab used to make your dentures
Ongoing maintenance costs.
Although privately made dentures are usually better quality and more durable than their NHS counterparts. Dentures are still very complex treatments, and you must find a dentist who is skilled in making them.
Denture design and placement is a complex and challenging process for dentists. Even privately-made dentures can fail to meet your needs fully. However, when combined with dental implants, their functionality, fit and function can significantly improve your lifestyle.
How much will ongoing maintenance cost – NHS vs Private?
A further cost-related consideration is how much ongoing denture maintenance will cost.
Chrome cobalt dentures (available only through private dentists) are more durable. If well cared for, they have a good chance of standing the test of time with minimal ongoing costs. However, they aren’t indestructible, so looking after them is key. This means refraining from biting on foreign objects and going to your routine check-ups.
The initial costs involved with NHS dentures are undoubtedly more economical. However, you could end up needing frequent repairs or even choosing to go down a different tooth replacement route. This is because NHS dentures can be:
Make chewing and talking a challenge.
Be hard to get used to.
Look inauthentic and cause you to feel self-conscious as a result.
Be highly prone to moving around in your mouth.
Maintenance costs
NHS
Adjustments and repairs are usually included within an initial period of warranty (12 months)
Adjustments 26.80.
Repairs £73.50.
Replacements £319.10.
Private
Adjustments and repairs are usually included within an initial warranty period (usually 12 months).
From then it can be from £95 - £250 depending on what’s needed.
Are there other options besides dentures?
Implants
As mentioned above, dentures can be secured with implants (implant-supported dentures). Implants enhance the stability of dentures and provide better aesthetics since they don’t sit on top of your gum line.
Read more about dental implants here.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed solution and is generally more expensive than a set of dentures. However, patients must have a single healthy tooth on one side of the gap to support the bridge. Dentures do not include this as a prerequisite to treatment, so you may wish to opt for partial dentures if this is the case.
Advice when considering dentures and their costs
With something as important as replacing your teeth, it’s important not to make any rash decisions. If you’re opting to go private, make sure you consider:
Going to a dentist with specific experience making dentures.
Setting realistic expectations with your dentist about how you will be able to eat and function with your dentures at the end of treatment. A good dentist will be transparent with you about the limitations of treatment – this applies whether you choose to go through the NHS or through a private dentist.
Ask your dentist about the costs involved and whether there are any hidden costs. If you have dental insurance, this may help reduce the cost of your treatment.
Going to a clinical dental technician directly. This can often yield better results. Dental technicians create dentures and can often better understand your needs (they have in-depth knowledge of the denture-making process). Note that you can only go to a clinical dental technician directly for complete dentures and that they are only available privately.
Conclusion
Dentures remain a widely utilised and versatile solution for tooth replacement, catering to those who have lost their teeth due to various causes such as gum disease, decay, or injuries. Whether opting for NHS-provided or private dentures, you should carefully consider the type of dentures you need, the materials used, and the dentist or dental technician's expertise.
