What Types of Dentures Are Available? What Are Suction Dentures? Denture Types & Prices

Have you or someone close to you experienced an uneven bite, food getting trapped between teeth, tooth loss from injury, or missing teeth due to ageing? As the population ages, more people are becoming concerned about tooth loss and want to know more about dentures. What types of dentures are available? Do you need dentures? How much do they cost? What should you know before treatment? Aegis Dental has put together key information on denture types, costs and treatment considerations to help you make a more informed decision.

 

Before Choosing Dentures: Understand Tooth Function

Missing teeth may affect chewing, speech, appearance and confidence. The most suitable replacement depends on which teeth are missing, your oral condition, lifestyle and budget.

Front Teeth

Front teeth are mainly used for biting and cutting food. Losing them can affect speech, cause air leakage when speaking, and noticeably change your appearance. This may lower confidence, affect social interactions, and even lead to emotional stress.

Canines

Canine teeth are mainly used for tearing food. When a canine tooth is missing, extra pressure may be placed on other teeth, potentially affecting chewing and digestion while also causing nearby teeth to shift or tilt.

Molars

Molars grind food during chewing. Missing molars on one side may lead to one-sided chewing, which over time may affect facial balance. If molars are missing on both sides, chewing becomes more difficult and may place greater strain on the digestive system.

Different types and degrees of tooth loss can affect daily life. Patients should consider suitable denture options early and understand the differences between denture types based on their needs and lifestyle.

 

Type 1: Removable Dentures

Removable dentures are suitable for patients who are missing some or all of their teeth. Their key advantage is that they can be easily inserted and removed by the patient. In most cases, nearby healthy teeth do not need to be reduced, and no surgery is required to place dental implants into the jawbone.

 

Different parts of removable dentures may be made from different materials. The most common include acrylic, metal frameworks and flexible resin. Acrylic is commonly used for the denture base and artificial teeth, and is relatively easy for dentists to adjust during follow-up care. Metal frameworks provide additional support, allowing for a thinner denture base, reducing bulkiness and improving comfort. Flexible resin is less commonly used as it may deform more easily, so it is generally reserved for short-term dentures.

 

There are two main types of removable dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures. These are explained below.

 

Removable Dentures Type A : Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are less common and are mainly used by older patients who have lost all teeth in one or both jaws. They can generally be divided into two types: conventional complete dentures and implant-retained overdentures. Conventional dentures offer lower stability. As the jawbone gradually shrinks with age, dentures may become loose or ill-fitting, causing movement during chewing or speaking. Repeated friction may also lead to discomfort or mouth ulcers. However, conventional complete dentures are generally more affordable and remain a common option. Implant-retained overdentures are a semi-fixed option. Mini implants are placed surgically to provide additional retention, often using magnetic attachments. This helps improve denture stability and chewing strength, while also helping reduce jawbone and gum shrinkage.

Removable Dentures Type B : Partial Dentures

Unlike complete dentures, partial dentures are suitable for patients who are missing only some teeth. They are commonly made from resin and stainless steel. The metal framework is used to form clasps that attach to nearby healthy teeth and must be custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth. However, the metal parts may be visible, so the appearance may be less discreet. Flexible resin can be used to create a gum-coloured denture base for a more natural look. However, as it is more prone to deformation, it is generally less suitable for long-term use.

 

An Advanced Removable Denture Option — Suction Dentures

Suction dentures are a newer type of removable denture. Unlike traditional dentures, they use a vacuum-like suction effect rather than adhesives to fit closely against the gums. This provides greater stability without affecting oral health, helping improve chewing ability and allowing patients to enjoy a wider variety of foods.

 

Suitable Candidates for Suction Dentures

Patients Unsuitable for Implant Surgery

Some patients with missing teeth may also have health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or blood-clotting disorders. For those unsuitable for surgery, suction dentures may be a suitable non-surgical option.

 

Patients with a Flat Dental Ridge

Long-term tooth loss may cause the dental ridge to become flatter, making traditional dentures less stable. Suction dentures use a vacuum-like seal for greater stability and may be more suitable for patients with a flat dental ridge.

 

Patients Unhappy with Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures may feel loose or bulky, and some patients may find chewing difficult. Suction dentures offer better stability and aesthetics, making them an alternative for those seeking greater comfort.

 

Removable Dentures: What to Know

Removable Denture Fitting Process

Fitting removable dentures involves examination, impressions, try-in and follow-up adjustments to ensure long-term comfort and fit.

At the first visit, the dentist will examine your oral health and may take X-rays to assess tooth loss and the jawbone, before discussing the most suitable denture option.

 

Impressions are then taken to record your bite. Once the trial denture is ready, the dentist will check its fit, bite and comfort, making adjustments as needed. After final polishing, the dentist will explain how to wear and care for your dentures.

 

Getting Used to New Dentures

Some discomfort is normal when first wearing removable dentures. It may take around two weeks to one month to adapt, with temporary changes in speech, saliva flow or mild soreness. Start by wearing them for gradually longer periods and choose soft foods cut into small pieces. Insert and remove dentures gently to avoid damage.

 

Cleaning Removable Dentures

Rinse dentures after meals to remove food debris. Before bed, remove and gently clean them with a soft toothbrush, water and denture cleaner. Avoid regular toothpaste, as abrasives may scratch the surface. Soak cleaned dentures in fresh water overnight.

 

Type 2: Fixed Dentures

Unlike removable dentures, fixed dentures cannot be removed by the patient and are permanently secured in the mouth. They are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth and generally offer a more natural appearance and feel. Common fixed options include dental crowns, dental bridges and dental implants.

 

Fixed Dentures Type A : Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are suitable for severely damaged individual teeth, such as teeth affected by extensive decay or after root canal treatment. A crown covers and protects the remaining natural tooth structure.

Fixed Dentures Type B : Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are commonly used to replace one or several adjacent missing teeth when healthy teeth remain on both sides. The neighbouring teeth support the replacement tooth to form a fixed bridge.

 

Fixed Dentures Type C : Dental Implants

Dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or even a full arch. An artificial tooth root is placed into the jawbone and topped with a dental crown after healing. Unlike bridges, implants generally do not require reducing healthy neighbouring teeth.

 

Fixed Denture Treatment Process

 

Fixed dentures usually require 2–3 dental visits. During the first visit, teeth around the missing area may be prepared to create space for the restoration. This step is generally not required for dental implants. The dentist then takes impressions and records the bite, size and shade of the teeth. A temporary crown may be provided while the final restoration is made. Once ready, the fit, bite and colour are checked before the restoration is permanently secured.

 

Fixed Denture Care

Good oral hygiene is essential after receiving fixed dentures. Food may collect around crowns and bridges, so floss or interdental cleaning should be used to clean these areas. Avoid biting very hard foods or objects, as excessive force may damage or loosen the restoration. Regular dental check-ups, generally every six months, are recommended to monitor the restoration and surrounding teeth and gums.

 

Denture Types & Prices

 

Category	Type	Suitable For	Benefits	Considerations	Price (HKD)*
Removable Dentures	Complete Dentures	Full tooth loss	Lower cost, no implant surgery	May feel loose; adaptation required	$5,000–$30,000 / arch
Removable Dentures	Partial Dentures	Several missing teeth	More affordable; removable for cleaning	Clasps may be visible; regular adjustment may be needed	$2,000 – $15,000
Removable Dentures	Suction Dentures	Full / near-full tooth loss	Improved retention; no adhesive in suitable cases	Suitability depends on gum and ridge anatomy	$15,000–$30,000 / full set
Fixed Dentures	Dental Crown	Severely damaged tooth	Protects remaining tooth structure; natural appearance	Requires tooth preparation	$2,500–$9,000 / tooth
Fixed Dentures	Dental Bridge	1–3 adjacent missing teeth	Stable and natural- looking; no implant surgery	Healthy neighboring teeth may need preparation	$5,000–$30,000 / unit
Fixed Dentures	Dental Implants	Single to full-arch tooth loss	Closest to natural tooth structure; does not rely on neighboring teeth	Surgery and healing time required	$15,000–$50,000 / tooth

* Prices vary depending on individual conditions and materials used. For reference only.

 

Choose the Right Denture for Missing Teeth

Choosing the right denture is important, but professional diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up care are equally essential. An experienced dentist can help reduce the risk of loose dentures, gum problems and other oral complications.

 

We hope this guide helps you better understand denture types and prices. For personalised advice, consult a qualified dentist to find the most suitable option for your needs.

 

Disclaimer: This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual oral conditions vary; professional dental assessment is recommended.