How Much Do Dentures Cost? Explore Costs & Options
If you’re missing teeth, dentures are often one of the first solutions that come to mind — but how much do dentures cost in Australia? More importantly, what are the pros and cons of dentures, and are there better options available today?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dentures, their costs, and why many patients are now turning to advanced options like overdentures and All-on-4® dental implants for a longer-lasting, more comfortable smile.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth and restore function and appearance. They are typically made from acrylic resin, sometimes combined with metal frameworks for added strength.
Types of Dentures:
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Complete Dentures: Replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
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Partial Dentures: Replace several missing teeth and use metal clasps to hold onto remaining natural teeth.
Dentures rest on the gums and require daily removal for cleaning. They rely heavily on suction, adhesives, and the natural contours of your gums for stability.
How to clean your dentures?
Cleaning your dentures properly is essential to keep them looking good and to maintain your oral health. Each day, gently remove your dentures and brush them with a soft denture brush or a regular soft toothbrush using a non‑abrasive denture cleanser or mild soap — avoid regular toothpaste, as it can be too harsh. Soaking your dentures overnight in a denture-cleaning solution helps remove stains and bacteria. Always rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth. Regular cleaning prevents bad odours, plaque buildup, and gum irritation, keeping your smile fresh and healthy.
The Cost of Dentures: What Are You Paying For?
Typical denture costs start from around $1,000 to $4,000 per arch in Australia. However, the final price can vary significantly depending on several key factors, including the type of denture, materials used, level of customisation, and the clinic’s experience. Here’s what influences the cost:
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Materials Used: Basic acrylic dentures are generally more affordable, while higher-quality materials (like flexible resins or metal frameworks) cost more.
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Type of Denture: Complete dentures usually cost more than partial dentures.
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Standard vs Cosmetic Dentures: Cosmetic dentures use higher-quality materials and require craftsmanship from a cosmetic lab to make the denture look more natural, rather than the more “typical” denture appearance.
Customisation and Fit: The process involves several appointments for impressions, fittings, and adjustments — quality craftsmanship comes with a price.
Does Medicare cover dentures?
In Australia, Medicare generally does not cover the cost of dentures.
Adults may access public dental services through state and territory programs if they hold certain concession cards, such as a Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card, or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. However, these services are often limited and may involve long waiting periods — often over 2–3 years.
For those not eligible for public dental services, private health insurance may offer coverage for dentures under their “extras” benefits. The extent of coverage varies between providers and policies, so it’s essential to review your policy details. At The Point Dental, we can check your private health insurance entitlements after your consultation with us.
Pros and Cons of Dentures
Pros:
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Lower upfront cost compared to implants
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Non-invasive, unless teeth removal is required
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Generally quick to make
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Improve the ability to eat and speak better than having missing teeth
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Customisable appearance for a natural look
Cons:
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Can be uncomfortable and may slip or cause sore spots
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Require daily removal and special cleaning routines
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Bone loss continues under dentures, changing the fit over time
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Often limit the types of foods you can comfortably eat
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May affect speech and self-confidence due to instability
Alternatives to Traditional Dentures: What Are Your Options?
While dentures can restore function and aesthetics, many patients find the limitations frustrating over time. This has led to the rise of overdentures (snap-on dentures) and All-on-4® dental implants — solutions designed to improve comfort, stability, and quality of life.
To make the best choice for your smile, health, and lifestyle, it’s important to understand the key differences between your full-mouth replacement options.
Here’s a brief overview of overdentures and All-on-4® to get you started:
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Overdentures: Overdentures are essentially traditional dentures that are held down by 2 to 4 dental implants, rather than relying solely on suction or denture glue. They still require daily removal for cleaning. The implants offer better retention and reduce movement of the denture, improving both comfort and chewing ability. Because of this added stability and technology, overdentures typically cost more than traditional dentures, starting around $10,000–$13,000. While overdentures are much more stable than traditional dentures, there are still some limitations you need to consider.
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All-on-4®: All-on-4® dental implants are a breakthrough solution for full-mouth teeth replacement. Unlike traditional removable dentures, All-on-4® uses just four strategically placed implants per arch to securely support a fixed bridge of natural-looking teeth — often allowing patients to walk out with a new smile in just 1 to 3 days.
Why All-on-4®?
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Stable and fixed — no slipping or adhesives needed
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No nightly removal — they stay in place like natural teeth
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Preserves jawbone and helps prevent further bone loss
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Dramatically improves chewing, speech, and confidence
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A long-term solution designed to last decades
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All-on-4® is typically more expensive, starting from around $24,000 per jaw, but many patients find the improved function, comfort, and aesthetics worth the cost.
Dentures, Overdentures, or All-on-4®: Not One Size Fits All
We understand that dentures and overdentures still play an important role in restoring smiles, and we continue to provide these solutions for many of our patients. For some, they’re the right fit, whether due to medical or financial reasons, or personal preferences.
However, over the years, we’ve seen a growing number of patients who, after living with dentures or overdentures for some time, begin looking for something more permanent, more comfortable and more reliable. That’s when many discover the transformative benefits of All-on-4® dental implants.
At The Point Dental, we’ve helped countless patients make that transition for the past decade, from dealing with looseness, dietary limitations, and discomfort… to enjoying the freedom and strength of a fixed, natural-feeling smile.
Of course, every smile and life situation is unique. That’s why we encourage patients to take the time to explore all their options — including the pros and cons of dentures, overdentures, and All-on-4® — and choose the one that truly suits them at this stage of life.
We also know that for many, cost can feel like a barrier. You may be surprised at how manageable full-mouth solutions can be — especially with early superannuation access, interest-free payment plans, and other flexible options we offer.
Click here to learn how we help patients afford full mouth teeth replacement.
Ready to Explore Your Best Smile Options?
If you’re currently dealing with multiple missing teeth and considering dentures, this could be the perfect time to explore all your full-mouth teeth replacement options before making a decision. Understanding the pros, cons, and long-term outcomes of each treatment — from dentures and overdentures to advanced All-on-4® dental implants — ensures you’re fully informed and confident about your decision, both now and in the years to come.
Book a complimentary consultation with The Point Dental today to discuss your needs, budget, and goals. Let us help you find the smile solution that fits your lifestyle and restores your confidence.
