Understanding your options for replacing missing teeth.
If you’re missing teeth and considering dentures, your dentist may recommend either a partial denture or a full denture — but what’s the difference?
Both are removable dental appliances designed to restore your smile and improve chewing and speaking, but they serve different purposes depending on how many teeth you’ve lost.
Here’s a breakdown to help you understand which option might be right for you.
🧩 What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are used when you’re missing some, but not all, teeth in either your upper or lower jaw.
They’re designed to fill the gaps between your natural teeth, and are typically held in place with:
- Metal or tooth-coloured clasps that attach to nearby natural teeth
- Or precision attachments for a more discreet fit (often used with crowns)
✅ Best for:
- Patients missing one or several teeth
- Those who still have healthy natural teeth to support the denture
- People who want a non-surgical, removable alternative to bridges or implants
🦷 Benefits:
- More affordable than implants or bridges
- Prevents shifting of remaining teeth
- Improves chewing and appearance
- Custom-made to match your existing teeth
😁 What Are Full Dentures?
Full dentures (also called complete dentures) are used when you’re missing all the teeth in either your upper or lower arch — or both.
They sit directly on your gums and are custom-designed to fit the natural contours of your mouth. Full dentures can be:
- Conventional (placed after the gums heal following extractions)
- Immediate (placed right after tooth removal for aesthetics during healing)
- Implant-supported for added stability
✅ Best for:
- Patients who have lost all teeth in one or both arches
- Those who need a full-mouth restoration
- People looking for an affordable, removable tooth replacement
🦷 Benefits:
- Restores full appearance and function
- Supports facial structure and prevents sunken cheeks
- Can be made quickly (especially immediate dentures)
🆚 Quick Comparison: Partial vs. Full Dentures
| Feature | Partial Denture | Full Denture |
|---|---|---|
| Replaces… | Some missing teeth | All teeth in upper or lower arch |
| Support comes from… | Natural teeth | Gums (or implants, if supported) |
| Removable? | Yes | Yes |
| Cost | Typically lower than full | Slightly higher, varies by materials |
| Best for | Patients with some teeth left | Patients with no teeth in an arch |
👩⚕️ Which Option Is Right for You?
That depends on:
- How many teeth you’re missing
- The health of your remaining teeth and gums
- Your budget, lifestyle, and preferences
- Whether you’re open to implants for added stability
Your dentist will assess your mouth and walk you through all the options — including whether implant-supported dentures might be worth considering for a more secure, long-term fit.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need to replace a few teeth or a full set, both partial and full dentures offer effective, natural-looking solutions to restore your smile. With today’s technology, they’re more comfortable and lifelike than ever.
Not sure which type of denture is right for you? Book a consultation with us today — our team will help you explore your options and create a personalized plan that fits your needs.