Types of Dentures Explained: Full, Partial, Flexible and Implant-Retained
- Star Light Dental
- February 12, 2026
- [email protected]
If the word dentures makes you think of a glass on the bedside table, it is time for an update. Modern dentures are thinner, lighter and far more natural looking than they used to be, and there are now several quite different types to choose from.
The right one depends on how many teeth you are missing, the condition of the teeth and gums you still have, and your budget. This guide walks through the main options in plain English.
1. Full Dentures
A full, or complete, denture replaces every tooth in the upper or lower jaw. An upper denture covers the palate and is held in place by suction, which usually works well. A lower denture has far less to grip, so it tends to move more, and that is the main reason people look at implant support.
There are two approaches. A conventional denture is made after any extractions have healed. An immediate denture is made in advance and fitted on the day the teeth come out, so you are never without teeth. Because gums shrink as they heal, an immediate denture needs relining after a few months.
2. Partial Dentures
A partial denture fills the gaps when you still have some healthy teeth, and it clips onto those teeth for support. The main difference between partial dentures is what the base is made of:
- Acrylic. The most affordable option and the easiest to add teeth to later. It is thicker and bulkier, and is often used as a temporary or transitional denture.
- Cobalt chrome. A cast metal frame that is thin, strong and very stable. It covers less of the mouth, so most people find it more comfortable long term.
- Flexible. See the next section.
3. Flexible Partial Dentures
Flexible dentures are made from a thin nylon-based material with gum-coloured clasps instead of metal ones, so they are very discreet. They are light, comfortable, hard to break and a good choice for people who are sensitive to acrylic.
The trade-offs are that they are harder to repair, reline or add a tooth to, and they do not spread chewing forces as well as a metal frame. They suit replacing a small number of teeth better than a large span.
4. Implant-Retained Dentures
An implant-retained denture, often called an overdenture, clips onto two to four dental implants placed in the jaw. It still comes out for cleaning, but it does not move when you eat or speak. For a loose lower denture it can be life changing.
Implants also help preserve the jawbone, which otherwise shrinks slowly once the teeth are gone. They involve minor surgery, more time and a higher cost, and they need enough healthy bone, so a careful assessment comes first.
5. What Affects the Cost?
- how many teeth are being replaced
- the material: acrylic, flexible, cobalt chrome or implant-retained
- whether any extractions or other treatment are needed first
- relines and adjustments over the life of the denture
Dentures usually fall under major dental on health fund extras. Concession card holders may be eligible for an NSW denture voucher, which we accept, and Medipay and Afterpay payment plans are available. We give you a written quote before anything starts.
6. Choosing the Right Denture and Getting Used to It
The best denture is the one that suits your mouth, not the most expensive one. At Star Light Dental, dentures are looked after by Dr Maher Farag, who holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Prosthodontics, the branch of dentistry that deals with replacing teeth, and has 34 years of experience.
Expect an adjustment period of a few weeks. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, practise reading aloud to settle your speech, and come back if a sore spot develops, because a small adjustment usually fixes it. Take dentures out overnight, and have the fit checked every year or two. You can read more on our dentures page.
Talk to Us About Your Options
A consultation is the quickest way to find out which type suits you and what it will cost. Call Star Light Dental in Prestons on (02) 9432 2833 or book online. There is on-site parking and the clinic has disabled access.