Searching for information about the average cost of a full set of dentures often reveals only part of the financial picture. Many patients discover ongoing expenses they hadn’t anticipated when comparing quotes for false teeth. Understanding the complete investment helps you budget accurately.
This guide covers all costs for traditional dentures and modern alternatives in a transparent way. We’ll explain initial expenses, pre-treatment procedures, adjustments, maintenance, and replacement to support informed decision-making about replacing missing teeth.
Summary of the Content:
- Initial costs for full and partial dentures range from $800 to $5,000 per arch. Costs vary depending on the type of denture, materials used, and complexity of your case, requiring customisation.
- Pre-treatment procedures like tooth extractions, bone grafting for adequate jaw support, and gum disease treatment add substantial upfront costs. These procedures must be completed before dentures can be fitted properly by your dental team.
- First-year adjustments typically require three to five follow-up appointments to address sore spots and refine fit. These appointments may incur additional fees depending on your denture clinic policies and cover.
- Ongoing maintenance includes periodic replacements or professional relining every two to three years as your jaw changes. Daily care products like adhesives and cleaning solutions total several hundred dollars annually.
- Denture lifespan typically ranges from 5 to 10 years before complete replacement becomes necessary. Individual results vary based on proper care, usage patterns, and natural wear.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Denture pricing varies depending on the type, materials used, complexity, and level of customisation. Current 2025 Western Australia pricing in major cities and metropolitan areas reflects these ranges.
Denture Type Price Ranges:
| Denture Type | Price Range | Ideal For |
| Basic full dentures (acrylic base) | $1,800 – $3,500 | Complete tooth loss per arch |
| Acrylic partial dentures | $800 – $2,500 | Only a few teeth are missing |
| Cobalt chrome partial | $2,500 – $4,000 | Multiple missing teeth |
| Flexible dentures | $1,500 – $3,000 | Comfort and aesthetics |
| Immediate dentures | $1,200 – $2,500 | Temporary during healing |
| Dental implants (per arch) | $15,000 – $30,000+ | Improved stability |
Material quality affects appearance, durability, and the natural-looking smile you can achieve. Case complexity matters when additional procedures are needed to achieve optimal patient outcomes. The level of customisation impacts the overall cost through personalised care and a precise fit.
When comparing quotes, clarify what’s included in denture services. Ask whether quotes cover impressions, trial fittings, and post-delivery adjustments. The average cost of a full set of dentures encompasses more than just custom-made prosthetic devices.
Complete Denture Costs (Complete Upper or Lower Arch)
Complete dentures replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Single arch pricing typically ranges from $1,800 to $5,000. Standard acrylic dentures with an acrylic base fall in the $1,800-$3,500 range.
If you need upper and lower dentures together, expect to pay approximately double. Options with higher-quality materials can cost $4,000 to $5,000 per arch.
Price variation factors:
- Basic full dentures
- Mid-range custom dentures
- Handcrafted dentures
The denture process significantly affects the higher price tag. Standard dentures follow streamlined protocols with fewer appointments and lower consultation fees. Higher-end versions involve multiple impressions and extensive customisation by your dental team.
Partial Denture Costs (Replacing Some Teeth)
Partial dentures replace several missing teeth while retaining the healthy natural teeth remaining. The full cost varies based on the materials used and the complexity of the partial set.
Partial Denture Options:
- Acrylic partial dentures: $800 – $2,500
- Flexible dentures: $1,500 – $3,000
- Cobalt chrome with metal frames: $2,500 – $4,000
Replacing only a few teeth costs less than addressing multiple missing teeth. Chrome cobalt partials offer better long-term value despite higher fees. The metal framework distributes forces evenly across healthy natural teeth.
Partial denture costs don’t include dental work for existing teeth. Supporting teeth may require care before the process begins. Discuss the condition of the remaining teeth during your initial consultation.
Pre-Treatment Costs Often Overlooked
Preparatory procedures may be necessary before dentures can be fitted properly, depending on individual circumstances. These expenses are almost never included in advertised prices. Understanding potential costs for additional procedures helps you budget accurately.
Common pre-treatment procedures:
- Tooth extractions for remaining teeth
- Bone grafting for adequate jaw support
- Immediate dentures during healing after significant tooth loss
- Procedures for gum disease
- Imaging studies evaluating your dental history
Your dentist provides a personalised plan outlining necessary procedures and payment options.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Tooth Extractions and Surgical Preparation
For complete dentures, all existing teeth in the arch are typically removed before fitting can proceed. Extraction costs vary based on tooth condition, position in your jaw, and the complexity of the case, which may require different dental approaches.
Extraction Costs:
| Extraction Type | Cost Per Tooth | Typical For |
| Simple extraction | $150 – $300 | Visible teeth with straightforward removal |
| Surgical extraction | $250 – $600+ | Impacted or broken teeth requiring surgery |
Multiple extractions for patients seeking complete dentures can quickly drive up costs. Removing eight existing teeth might cost $1,200 to $4,800, depending on the complexity. Some patients require all extraction under sedation with their dental team, adding anaesthesia fees.
Gum tissue typically takes 3-6 months to heal after extractions, though healing time varies among individuals. Bone remodels and gums reshape during this period before the denture process can continue. Many patients choose immediate dentures, created specifically to avoid going without teeth during healing.
Immediate dentures typically cost $1,200 to $2,500 per arch as temporary dental work. They serve as functional placeholders during healing and tissue changes. These require frequent future adjustments as gums reshape significantly over a few months.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Bone Grafting and Ridge Augmentation
Bone grafting may be recommended when insufficient jawbone exists for proper support. This is particularly common for implant-supported options where small titanium posts require adequate bone volume. Current Western Australia costs in major cities typically range from $500 to $3,000.
When your dentist may suggest bone grafting:
- Extended periods with teeth missing can cause significant bone resorption, reducing the jaw’s ability to support dentures.
- Insufficient ridge height or width in your jaw creates challenges for achieving a stable fit with dentures.
- Planning for titanium implants requires adequate bone density to support the small titanium posts securely.
- Naturally thin or irregular jawbone structure may need augmentation to provide a proper foundation for dentures.
Bone grafting adds both time and cost to your dental care journey. Grafted bone typically requires 3-6 months (a few months) to integrate before implant placement. This extended timeline means wearing temporary options or going without teeth longer.
The decision about bone grafting depends on your dental history and individual circumstances. Your dental team evaluates the jawbone structure through examinations and advanced imaging. They can discuss whether grafting may benefit your denture options and overall outcomes.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
The First Year: Adjustment and Fitting Costs
Getting used to new dentures typically requires multiple follow-up appointments during the first 3-6 months, depending on individual adjustment needs. Gum tissue and underlying bone in your jaw undergo significant changes as they heal. These changes affect how dentures fit comfortably, often necessitating adjustments by your dental team.
Common first-year issues all our patients may experience:
- Sore Spots:
Sore spots develop where dentures create pressure points on the gums, requiring adjustment for comfort. - Speech Difficulties:
Speech difficulties occur as the tongue and muscles adapt to wearing false teeth throughout the day. - Minor Fit Issues:
Minor fit issues emerge as tissues settle and reshape naturally during the healing and adaptation period. - Eating Challenges:
Eating challenges affect oral function initially but typically improve with adjustments and practice over time.
Whether follow-up appointments are included in your initial denture consultation fees varies by practice. Some clinics offering patients comprehensive care include several adjustment visits in the base price. Others charge separately for each appointment after the initial placement as part of the payment options.
When comparing quotes from preferred providers, clarify what post-delivery dental care is included. Ask about covered regular check-ups and the timeframe they span. Understanding these payment options helps you accurately compare equivalent denture services.
Follow-Up Appointments and Minor Adjustments
Most people require 3-5 follow-up appointments during the first few months with their dental team. These visits address sore spots, refine fit for comfort, adjust bite relationships affecting oral function, and smooth rough areas. Whether appointments incur additional fees depends on your denture clinic’s policies and the health funds it accepts.
Some clinics offering patients comprehensive quality dental care include adjustment visits within three to six months. Others charge separately, typically $80 to $150 per visit for regular check-ups. Five visits might cost an additional $400 to $750 if not included.
Issues commonly requiring adjustment for dentures to fit comfortably:
- Pressure Points:
Pressure points create sore spots on the gums and tissues, requiring adjustment to relieve discomfort. - Sharp Edges:
Denture edges feel sharp or irritating to the tongue, necessitating smoothing by your dental team. - Bite Imbalances:
Bite imbalances cause uneven chewing pressure in your jaw, affecting comfort and oral function. - Fit Discrepancies:
Minor fit discrepancies during eating or speaking affect oral function and require professional adjustment.
These issues are commonly experienced during adjustment and don’t necessarily indicate defective dentures. Your mouth needs time to adapt to wearing false teeth daily. Tissues change during adaptation, necessitating modifications by your dentist to restore your smile comfortably.
When selecting a denture clinic, consider their adjustment policy and whether they offer flexible payment plans. Practices that include adjustment visits demonstrate a commitment to proper care and patient satisfaction. They address financial barriers that prevent patients from seeking necessary modifications to improve stability.
Professional Relines in the First Year
Your new dentures may require relining within 6-12 months of initial fitting. Relining adds new acrylic resin to the tissue side, improving fit as tissues in your jaw change. This represents a normal response to bone remodelling requiring future adjustments.
Reline Types:
| Reline Type | Cost | Duration | Purpose |
| Soft reline | $200 – $400 | 6-12 months | Temporary cushioning for comfort |
| Hard reline (acrylic base) | $300 – $600 | Several years | Addressing fit for stability |
Timing for relining varies depending on individual healing processes and natural wear patterns. Some patients seeking an optimal fit need relining within six months. Others maintain an adequate, stable fit for a year or longer.
Signs of relining may be needed for your dentures:
- Your dentures feel loose or move during eating despite proper care and regular cleaning routines.
- Food particles get trapped under dentures frequently, affecting oral function and causing discomfort during meals.
- Sore spots develop in previously comfortable areas of your jaw, indicating changes in tissue fit.
- Clicking sounds occur when eating or talking, compromising natural appearance and causing potential embarrassment.
- Changes in facial appearance become noticeable as dentures settle differently due to tissue changes over time.
Schedule an evaluation with your dental team if you notice these signs rather than waiting. Addressing fit issues promptly prevents more serious problems that may require additional procedures and improves daily comfort.
Whether first-year relines are included in consultation fees varies by denture clinic policies. Some dentists include the first reline in comprehensive denture services. Others charge separately for all future adjustments needed throughout the denture process.
Ongoing Maintenance Costs Years 2-5
Dentures typically require ongoing maintenance beyond initial fitting and first-year adjustments for proper care. These continuing expenses include professional procedures and daily care products for all denture types. While individual costs may seem modest, they accumulate significantly, affecting the overall cost.
Professional maintenance your dental team provides:
- Your dental team performs periodic replacements or relining every 2-3 years to maintain a stable fit as tissues change.
- Potential adjustments address natural wear issues in denture teeth that develop over time with regular use.
- Professional cleaning maintains natural appearance, removes buildup, and helps identify problems requiring attention early.
- Regular check-ups monitor oral function and gum health to prevent complications and maintain overall dental care quality.
Daily care products for proper care:
- Denture adhesives improve retention and comfort, costing approximately $8-$15 monthly for regular users.
- Cleaning solutions and tablets maintain hygiene and prevent staining, costing approximately $10-$20 monthly.
- Special denture brushes require periodic replacement every three months, costing approximately $5-$12 quarterly.
- Overnight soaking containers protect your false teeth when not in use, costing approximately $5-$15 annually.
Regular dental maintenance can help reduce long-term costs by potentially preventing more serious problems. Properly fitted dentures may be less prone to breakage from uneven pressure, though individual results vary. Well-maintained custom-made dentures last longer before requiring complete replacement.
When budgeting for dental care, consider cumulative annual costs for denture services. Planning for several hundred dollars annually in maintenance provides realistic estimates. This investment protects your initial investment and maintains oral function comfortably.
Periodic Relines, Adjustments, and Professional Maintenance
Many denture types may require relining every 2-3 years, even after first-year adjustments, depending on individual factors. Jawbone and gum tissue typically continue changing throughout life due to natural processes and wear patterns. This ongoing change means well-fitting dentures gradually become looser, requiring future adjustments.
Hard relines with a new acrylic base material addressing these changes generally cost $300 to $600 per arch. This represents a recurring expense throughout denture ownership, depending on the type and materials used.
Common damage requiring dental work by your dentist:
- Dentures dropped on hard surfaces or stepped on can break the acrylic base, requiring professional attention.
- Denture teeth wear down from normal use over time, affecting their natural appearance and chewing function.
- Clasps on acrylic partial dentures loosen over time, compromising retention and requiring adjustment or replacement.
- Fractures develop in the acrylic resin from uneven pressure in your jaw, necessitating professional correction or replacement.
Procedures typically cost $100 to $500, depending on the extent of the damage and the material quality. While custom-made dentures, with proper care, are generally durable, accidents can occur over several years.
Factors increasing breakage risk needing additional procedures:
- Inadequate fit causes uneven pressure distribution, affecting better stability and increasing damage risk over time.
- Hard foods create excessive force on denture teeth, potentially causing cracks or breaks in the structure.
- Improper cleaning techniques using abrasive materials can damage the acrylic base and reduce denture lifespan significantly.
- Failure to wear dentures regularly allows tissue changes in your jaw, compromising the fit when reinserted later.
Skipping necessary maintenance creates risks beyond comfort issues affecting oral function. Poorly fitted dentures can cause sore spots, making daily eating difficult. They accelerate bone loss in your jaw through uneven tissue pressure. Loose false teeth may fall during speaking or eating, creating embarrassing situations.
During regular check-ups, your dental team can assess whether future adjustments or relines are needed. They check for signs of natural wear or damage that require attention using technological tools. They also evaluate oral tissues for concerning changes affecting how dentures fit your mouth.
Daily Denture Care Products and Supplies
Daily care product costs accumulate significantly over time for all denture types. Understanding these ongoing expenses helps you budget realistically for proper care, maintaining natural natural-looking appearance.
Annual Product Costs:
| Product Category | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Purpose |
| Dental adhesives (if needed) | $8 – $15 | $100 – $180 | Better stability and comfort |
| Cleaning tablets/solutions | $10 – $20 | $120 – $240 | Hygiene and natural appearance |
| Special denture brushes | $5 – $12 (quarterly) | $20 – $50 | Proper care without damage |
| Soaking containers | One-time $5-$15 | Occasional | Protecting false teeth overnight |
Not all patients seeking denture services require adhesive for well-fitted custom dentures. However, as dentures age and fit gradually change in your jaw, many find adhesive helpful. Regular cleaning maintains hygiene, prevents staining, and supports fresh breath.
Special denture brushes differ from regular toothbrushes in design and firmness for proper care. A quality brush should be replaced every three months for optimal effectiveness. Using regular toothbrushes can damage acrylic resin surfaces and denture teeth.
Total annual costs for supplies typically range from $250 to $500, depending on the type. This depends on specific products used and usage frequency. While not enormous compared to upfront costs, these represent ongoing commitments.
Some patients reduce costs through comparison shopping or buying in bulk quantities. Your dentist can advise on which products are essential versus optional for maintaining a natural-looking smile.
Long-Term Costs: Replacement and Upgrades
Even with proper care, dentures typically have a limited lifespan due to natural wear. Lifespan commonly ranges from 5 to 10 years before replacement may become necessary, though individual results vary. This makes dentures a recurring expense rather than a one-time purchase.
Signs replacement is needed for your false teeth:
- Visible natural wear on denture teeth from years of chewing affects both appearance and function.
- Dentures feel significantly loose despite recent relining performed by your dental team.
- Your facial appearance changes, suggesting the dentures no longer provide adequate support in your jaw.
- You experience persistent discomfort even after adjustments, which compromises daily oral function.
- The acrylic base shows structural damage, such as cracks or repeated breaks.
A common contributing factor is continued bone loss in the jaw after tooth loss. Jawbone commonly decreases in height and width over time, though the rate varies significantly between individuals. Over time, jaw shape may change to the point where existing dentures no longer fit properly.
New dentures made with impressions of your current jaw shape may become necessary. This happens regardless of the denture teeth’s physical condition. Your mouth has changed, not necessarily the custom-made prosthetic devices themselves.
Calculating the annual cost of ownership:
If complete dentures cost $3,500 per arch and last seven years, the annual ownership cost is approximately $500 per arch. This calculation doesn’t include maintenance but illustrates ongoing investment in dental care.
Factors affecting denture lifespan vary depending on individual circumstances:
- Individual rate of bone loss in your jaw (varies significantly)
- Material quality of original dentures and fabrication technique
- How well you provide proper care for your false teeth
- Accidents or damage requiring early replacement before the expected lifespan
Some of our patients find that dentures last longer than 10 years with quality dental care. Others need replacement sooner due to a significant tooth loss history or rapid bone changes. Regular check-ups with your dental team help identify when replacement is becoming necessary.
Health Funds, Payment Plans, and Financial Assistance
Several assistance programs and payment options can reduce immediate financial pressure for denture services. However, eligibility and cover for denture benefits vary significantly based on individual circumstances and preferred health fund providers.
Private Health Fund Cover
Many preferred health fund providers provide benefits for dentures under “major dental” cover. Annual cashback typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on your level. Most funds impose 12-month waiting periods for major dental work before benefits apply.
Important factors to verify with preferred providers:
- Covered Percentage:
Confirm what percentage or amount of your fund will cover dentures, specifically for your situation. - Waiting Periods:
Verify whether waiting periods have been met for major dental work before benefits apply.
- Covered Percentage:
- Annual Limits:
Check your annual limit and any previous claims used this calendar year that affect remaining benefits. - Provider Agreements:
Confirm whether your chosen denture clinic has preferred provider agreements with your health fund.
Annual limits apply, meaning upper and lower dentures together may need to be spread across two calendar years. This affects when you can expect to pay full amounts versus receiving fund contributions.
Government Assistance Programs
Medicare provides limited dental care for most Australians. No specific benefits exist for general adults seeking denture services. However, certain programs may help eligible seniors and concession card holders.
Programs that may provide free or subsidised dentures:
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card:
This card provides access to public dental services for eligible seniors. - Department of Veterans’ Affairs:
This program provides comprehensive dental care to eligible seniors. - State-Based Programs:
These programs serve eligible seniors with concession cards, though extensive waiting lists are possible.
Eligibility requirements and available public dental services vary by state and program. Contact your state health department to learn about free or subsidised dentures in metropolitan areas and regional locations.
Payment Options and Flexible Payment Plans
Several financing arrangements make denture costs more manageable for patients seeking quality dental care:
| Payment Option | Key Features | Ideal For |
| National Dental Plan | Interest-free arrangements | Major dental work over time |
| Zip and Afterpay | Buy-now-pay-later flexibility | Immediate need with instalment preferences |
| Clinic instalment plans | Agreed schedules with your dentist | Direct arrangements without third parties |
Many clinics offer flexible payment plans, helping patients manage upfront costs for denture treatments. When considering payment options, understand terms clearly, including interest or fees affecting the full cost. Ask about the total cost compared to the upfront payment and the consequences of missed payments.
Essential Denture Consultation Questions
Important topics to discuss with your dental team during the initial consultation:
- What exactly is included in the quoted price for denture services?
- How many adjustment appointments are covered initially for proper care?
- What warranty or cover is provided for custom-made dentures?
- What is the expected lifespan for recommended denture types?
- What future adjustments and periodic replacements should I anticipate?
- What payment options or flexible payment plans are available?
- What additional procedures might be needed, affecting the overall cost?
Having this information upfront helps you choose a denture clinic whose policies align with your needs. Understanding whether they work with preferred health fund providers also affects out-of-pocket expenses.
Final Thoughts
Understanding complete costs for denture options is essential for realistic budgeting. The average cost of a full set of dentures includes additional procedures, future adjustments, and periodic replacements. Initial prices for traditional dentures represent a partial investment only, while ongoing maintenance makes false teeth a recurring expense. Higher upfront costs for quality materials may reduce long-term needs, and various payment options exist through preferred health fund providers.
Informed patients make better decisions to restore their smile. Whether seeking basic full dentures, acrylic partial dentures, flexible dentures, or dental implants, knowing the full cost helps. Understanding financial expectations allows you to choose denture options that align with your needs and preferences.
Contact our team for an initial consultation to discuss your individual needs. We assess your dental history, provide detailed pricing for types of dentures available, explain flexible payment plans, and answer questions about dental care.
