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Dentures (false teeth)

Dentures are false teeth that are used to replace missing teeth. They fit over your gums and some types also clip onto any remaining teeth you have.

What dentures are for

If you need to have teeth removed or have 1 or more missing teeth, you may need dentures.

Dentures help with problems caused by missing teeth, such as difficulty eating or speaking.

If you have teeth missing, you may also feel self-conscious about how it looks, even if it's not causing problems.

You may be offered either:

  • complete dentures – which can be used to replace all of your upper or lower teeth
  • partial dentures – which can be used to replace 1 or more missing teeth

Alternatives to dentures

There are other dental treatments that can be used to replace missing teeth including:

  • bridges – which are fixed to other teeth in your mouth and cannot be removed
  • dental implants - which are fixed to your jawbone to replace the roots of your teeth and can help support crowns or some types of dentures

Speak to your dentist about which treatments they offer and the best treatment options for your missing teeth.

How to get dentures

An NHS dentist may offer you NHS dentures if you need them to treat a dental problem.

They'll assess your teeth and decide if dentures are the best option for you.

Most people need to pay for NHS dental treatment. Dentures are classed as a band 3 treatment under NHS dental charges.

Some people are entitled to free NHS dental treatment in England.

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Paying for private dentures

You can also pay to have dentures fitted with a private dentist.

The cost can vary a lot depending on the type of dentures you choose and the material they're made from.

You may have a wider choice of materials if you pay for private dentures.

You may also be able to pay extra to have different types of dentures fitted with an NHS dentist.

How dentures are made and fitted

To make dentures, your dentist will first measure your mouth and use putty to create a mould. Some dentists may take a scan of your mouth instead of using putty.

It usually takes a few weeks for your dentures to be made and you'll be given another appointment to have them fitted.

Immediate dentures

If you need a set of dentures quickly or you’re adding teeth to an existing set, you may be given “immediate dentures”.

These types of dentures can usually be made within a few days.

Immediate dentures often need to be adjusted or replaced up to a year later. This is because your mouth can change shape as it heals after having teeth removed.

If you need a new set of dentures, they'll be made and fitted in the same way and you'll need to pay NHS dental charges.

How to look after your dentures

Your dentist will give you advice about how to use and look after your dentures.

It can take a few weeks to get used to wearing dentures. It may help to practice taking them in and out and eating softer foods until you’re comfortable with your regular diet.

There are also some things you can do to help keep your dentures clean, use them safely and maintain your dental health.

Do

  • brush your gums, tongue and any remaining teeth with fluoride toothpaste every morning and evening

  • remove your dentures and brush them with soft soap or washing up liquid every morning and evening

  • clean dentures over a sink filled with water, or something soft such as a towel – they can break if you drop them

  • rinse your dentures in cold water after meals to remove loose bits of food

  • remove your dentures every night – keep them in water, a polythene bag with damp cotton wool, an overnight denture-cleaning solution or a denture bath

Don’t

  • do not wear your dentures overnight unless your dentist recommends it – trapped food increases the risk of gum infections and tooth decay, plus there’s a risk you could choke on them if you leave them in while sleeping

  • do not clean your dentures with toothpaste – it could damage them

Information:

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Problems dentures can cause

If you do not clean your dentures properly and get them adjusted when needed, it could lead to problems such as:

  • a sore mouth
  • infections
  • difficulty eating and speaking

Dentures can last for years if you look after them properly, but it’s important to keep seeing your dentist regularly.

They may become loose as your gums and jawbone shrink or change shape as you get older. They may also become worn or damaged over time.

Non-urgent advice: See a dentist if:

  • your dentures click when you're talking
  • your dentures slip, or you feel they no longer fit properly
  • your dentures are causing pain
  • your dentures are worn or damaged – if your dentures break, bring any broken parts to the dentist so they can check if they’re able to repair them
  • you have very red or bleeding gums, or bad breath, which can be signs of gum disease, a fungal infection or tooth decay

Page last reviewed: 19 March 2025
Next review due: 19 March 2028