Understanding the Cost of Dentures: With and Without Insurance

Dentures are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both functional and cosmetic benefits. But for many, the biggest question is: how much do dentures cost? Whether or not you have insurance, the price of dentures can range widely, sometimes running into thousands of dollars. Here's what you need to know about denture costs, insurance coverage, and affordable options.

How Much Do Dentures Cost? 

The cost of dentures can vary widely based on several factors, such as insurance coverage, type of dentures, materials, necessary treatments, and the dentist or specialist the patient sees. 

How Much Do Dentures Cost Without Insurance?

The cost of dentures without insurance can range from $1,000 to $20,000. On average, most people spend around $1,300 out of pocket.

How Much Do Dentures Cost With Insurance?

Dental insurance can significantly reduce the cost of dentures, often covering up to 50% of the total expense. However, coverage varies by plan, and most policies include deductibles, copays, and annual maximums that may limit how much is covered.

What Factors Influence The Cost of Dentures?

The costs involved in getting dentures vary based on several factors: 

1. Preparatory Work and Treatments 

Most people who need dentures also need preparatory procedures, such as 

• Tooth extractions 

• Gum disease treatment

• Imaging and X-rays 

These additional procedures and the complexity of the treatment plan can add to the overall cost of dentures. 

2. Type of Dentures

Your dentist will recommend the best type of dentures for you based on the number of missing teeth. Different types of dentures come with different price tags, such as:

3. Denture Materials

Different materials used affect the comfort and price of dentures. For example:

• Acrylic Resin ($1,500–$3,000) is more affordable and common, but it may need replacement in 5–8 years.

• Porcelain ($1,500–$4,000) is more durable and natural-looking, but higher in cost.

• Flexible Materials ($1,500–$3,500) offer comfort and aesthetic appeal.

• Metal (Cobalt-Chrome) ($1,700–$4,200) is durable but less natural in appearance.

Dentures made from high-quality materials such as polycarbonate and polypropylene offer the most comfortable fit and are generally more expensive.

4. Dentist Experience and Specialist Care

The cost of denture care varies depending on where you get your care. 

A more qualified and experienced team of dentists will charge higher fees. The clinic’s location also affects the cost of dentures and dental care. Generally speaking, dental treatments are cheaper in suburban areas than in metropolitan areas.

Average Cost of Dentures by Type and Material

Full Dentures vs. Partial Dentures

Full or complete dentures are for those who have lost all their teeth. They take up the whole upper or lower jaw and replace all the teeth in an arch. 

Partial dentures are for those who have lost only some teeth. They replace the missing teeth by anchoring to healthy teeth in your mouth. 

Traditional Dentures vs. Removable Dentures

Traditional dentures are removable full dentures that you wear during the day and take out at night. They consist of artificial teeth mounted on a gum-colored base. 

Permanent dentures are secured to the jawbone with dental implants and are not removable.

Immediate or Temporary Dentures

If you undergo tooth extractions, your dentist may offer immediate dentures to wear immediately after the extraction. These temporary devices are ultimately replaced with your permanent dentures.

Dental Insurance and Medicare Coverage

Does Medicare Cover Dentures?

No, Medicare does not cover dentures, implants, or additional dental procedures such as extractions, cleanings, or fillings.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Some Medicare Advantage plans cover dentures, typically one set every 5 years. But they don’t typically pay the full cost of dentures.

Dental Insurance Plans

Many dental insurance plans include restorative treatments, such as dentures, in covered dental services. 

Keep in mind, however, that:

• Coverage levels vary but can be up to 50% of the cost of dentures. 

• Regular deductibles and copays still apply. 

• Most dental insurance plans have an annual maximum coverage limit. 

• Waiting period of up to 12 months for new plans may apply.

• Many dental offices offer financial assistance to make dentures more accessible.

Affordable Denture Solutions

Here are some tips on finding affordable dentures:

• Look for programs that provide free or low-cost dentures for seniors in need. Your local health department or community center may offer these. Programs exist to help specific categories of people, such as veterans or disabled individuals. 

• Search for charities that offer free dentures for low-income adults.

• Contact non-profit organizations such as the Dental Lifeline Network or Cosmetic Dentistry Grants that connect people in need with volunteer dentists or offer financial assistance for dentures.

• Check with local dental schools to see if they offer cheap or free dentures. 

• Find out if your state covers denture costs through Medicaid.

• Consider volunteering for a clinical trial on dentures. Highly skilled dentists conduct research studies and can provide inexpensive denture care. The American College of Prosthodontists is a good resource for finding ongoing trials.

• Look for a dental grants program that can cover part of the cost of your dentures.

What to Expect: Denture Procedure and Timeline

Dentures Process

• Initial Consultation: Your dentist will perform a dental exam and X-rays to develop a customized treatment plan.

• Lab Work: Your dentist will obtain upper and lower jaw impressions to create custom dentures for you.

• Fitting and Adjustments: The dental technician will use wax blocks to customize your dentures and ensure that your synthetic and natural teeth fit together nicely.

• Polishing: The final step is polishing your new dentures for a natural appearance and sending them back to your dentist for a fitting.

Timeline

Getting new dentures varies from several weeks to a few months, depending on the type of denture and additional procedures required. For example:

• Full dentures: 6–12 weeks

• Partial dentures: 4–8 weeks

• Immediate dentures: Same day as extractions

• Permanent implant-supported dentures: May take several months

Maintenance Tips

You need to care for your dentures just like you care for your teeth:

• Take out removable dentures after eating and clean them.

• Clean your mouth after taking out your dentures.

• Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush at least once daily.

• Soak dentures overnight to keep them moist and help them retain their shape. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate denture soaking solution. 

• Schedule regular dental checkups and seek timely care for ill-fitting dentures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Type of Dentures?

The best type of dentures depends on your needs and preferences. Traditional dentures (full or partial) are suitable for many people. Implant-retained dentures offer more stability and feel more natural, but they are also the most expensive type. 

Are Dentures Cheaper Than Implants?

Dentures typically have lower upfront costs. However, implants last longer and may be more cost-effective over time due to their durability.