
How Dentures Work
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth and rest directly on your gums. Partial dentures fill selected gaps, using metal or acrylic clasps that attach to your neighboring natural teeth. Dentures cost less upfront than implants and offer a straightforward way to replace missing teeth. We give you an honest, side-by-side comparison with implant options so you can decide what suits your situation.
Types of Dentures
The right type depends on how many teeth you are replacing.
- Full Dentures Replace a whole arch of missing teeth, resting on the gums.
- Partial Dentures Fill selected gaps, held by clasps on neighboring teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures attached to implants for added stability.
Caring for Dentures
Dentures are removed each night for cleaning and soaking. Some people use an adhesive to help keep them from slipping while eating. Over time, the jawbone changes shape, so dentures may need relining or replacing to keep a good fit.
Dentures and Implants Compared
- Dentures cost less upfront
- Implants stay anchored and are brushed like natural teeth
- Dentures are removed nightly for cleaning
- Implant-supported dentures combine both approaches
Other Tooth Replacement Options
Compare dental implants and crowns and bridges, or see the full list of services.


The short answer
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth: full dentures replace an entire arch and rest on the gums, while partial dentures fill selected gaps using clasps on the neighboring natural teeth. They cost less upfront than implants and are removed each night for cleaning. Because the jawbone changes shape over time, dentures may need relining or replacing to keep a good fit, and implant-supported options add stability.
Dentures FAQ
- What is the difference between full and partial dentures?
- Full dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth and rest directly on the gums. Partial dentures fill selected gaps. They use metal or acrylic clasps attached to the neighboring natural teeth.
- How do I care for my dentures?
- Dentures are removed each night for cleaning and soaking. Some people use an adhesive to help keep them from slipping while eating. Bring them to your checkups so the fit can be checked.
- Will my dentures need adjusting over time?
- Yes, the jawbone changes shape over time. Dentures may then need relining or replacing to keep a good fit. We check the fit at your visits.
- Should I choose dentures or implants?
- Dentures cost less upfront and offer a straightforward way to replace missing teeth. Implants stay anchored and are cleaned like natural teeth. We give you an honest comparison so you can decide what fits your life and budget.
Insurance & Financing
Benefits and participation vary by plan. Please contact our office so we can help you verify your coverage and understand your options before treatment.
CareCredit and Cherry are available. Terms and approval are set by each provider.
