If you’re missing teeth and exploring replacement options, dentures are a popular, effective way to restore your smile and improve your daily comfort. But one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to choose partial dentures or complete dentures.
Each type of denture has its own purpose, benefits, and considerations. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences to help you understand which denture option is better suited to your needs and lifestyle.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are designed to replace one or several missing teeth in your upper or lower arch. They fit around your remaining natural teeth using a discreet framework, which may include metal clasps or flexible attachments.
When Are Partial Dentures Used?
- When you still have several healthy natural teeth remaining
- To fill in gaps caused by missing teeth
- To prevent surrounding teeth from shifting
- To restore chewing ability and speech
What Are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures (also called full dentures) are used when all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw—or both—are missing. These dentures sit directly on the gums and are custom-made to match the natural shape of your mouth.
When Are Complete Dentures Used?
- When all natural teeth are missing in a dental arch
- After extensive tooth loss due to gum disease, injury, or decay
- To restore facial shape and function
Pros and Cons of Partial Dentures
Benefits:
- Keeps your remaining teeth in place
- Often more affordable than full dentures
- Preserves natural tooth structure
- Lightweight and comfortable for daily wear
Considerations:
- May not be suitable if remaining teeth are weak or unhealthy
- Metal clasps can sometimes be slightly visible
- Still requires daily removal and cleaning
Key Differences Between Partial and Complete Dentures
| Feature | Partial Dentures | Complete Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Number of teeth replaced | One or more, not all | All teeth in an upper or lower arch |
| Support structure | Attached to remaining natural teeth | Sits directly on the gums |
| Stability | High (uses existing teeth for support) | Secure fit, may need adhesive at times |
| Removability | Yes | Yes |
| Cost | Generally lower than complete dentures | May be higher if replacing full arch |
| Customisation | Tailored to fit around existing teeth | Fully shaped to your gum line and jaw |
Pros and Cons of Complete Dentures
Benefits:
- Ideal when all teeth are missing
- Supports facial structure and restores your smile
- Can be made quickly and affordably
- Provides full-mouth functionality for eating and speaking
Considerations:
- Requires an adjustment period
- Fit may change over time as gums naturally shrink
- May need adhesive for extra stability
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between partial and complete dentures depends on:
- How many teeth you’re missing
- Your oral health (are your remaining teeth healthy and strong?)
- Your comfort and budget
- Whether you want a removable or fixed option (like implants—though that’s a different treatment altogether)
If you still have some healthy teeth, partial dentures may be the simplest and most affordable solution to restore your smile.
If you’ve lost all your teeth in an arch, complete dentures are likely your best option.
Restore Your Smile with the Right Denture Solution
Both partial and complete dentures offer reliable, cost-effective ways to replace missing teeth and improve your quality of life. The right choice depends on your individual needs, but either option can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
At South Coast Denture Clinic, we specialise in creating both partial and complete dentures tailored to your unique smile. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or all of them, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
