Types of dentures — complete, partial, flexible, immediate and implant-retained

Key facts

• Complete dentures replace all teeth in a jaw
• Partials are acrylic, cobalt-chrome or flexible nylon
• Immediate dentures avoid a gap on extraction day
• Implant-retained dentures clip onto implants
• Choice depends on remaining teeth, gums and bone

Complete (full) dentures

A complete denture replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. It is made from an acrylic base coloured like gum with acrylic or composite teeth, and it stays in place by fitting closely to the gums and, in the upper jaw, by suction against the palate. Upper complete dentures are often quite stable; lower ones tend to move more because there is less surface and the tongue pushes against them. A well-made complete denture involves careful impressions, bite records and a try-in so that appearance, speech and chewing are checked before the final denture is processed. Relines are needed over time as the gums shrink.

Partial dentures: acrylic and cobalt-chrome

A partial denture fills gaps when some natural teeth remain. Acrylic partials are lighter on cost and quick to make or add teeth to, which suits temporary situations, but they are bulkier and cover more of the gum. Cobalt-chrome partials use a thin, strong metal framework with clasps that rest on and grip selected natural teeth; they are usually thinner, more stable and kinder to the gums when designed well, and are often chosen as a longer-term option. Both types need the supporting teeth to be healthy, so any decay or gum disease is treated first.

Flexible (nylon) dentures

Flexible dentures are partial dentures made from a thermoplastic nylon material that bends slightly. The clasps are made of the same gum-coloured material, so there are no visible metal hooks, and many people find them comfortable and discreet. They suit some patients who are allergic to acrylic or who want an aesthetic option for a few front teeth. However, they are harder to adjust, reline or add teeth to than acrylic or metal partials, they can stain over time and they may give less support to the bite. They are usually not used as complete dentures.

Immediate dentures

An immediate denture is made before your remaining teeth are removed and is fitted on the same day as the extractions, so you never have to be seen without teeth. It also acts like a bandage that helps protect the healing sockets. Because the gums and bone change shape significantly in the months after extraction, an immediate denture will loosen and needs relining — sometimes more than once — and many patients have a new definitive denture made once healing has settled. Immediate dentures cannot be tried in fully beforehand in the areas where teeth are still present, so final appearance is planned from models and records.

Implant-retained and implant-supported dentures

Implant-retained dentures (overdentures) clip onto two or more implants using locator attachments or a bar. They remain removable for cleaning but stop the denture lifting and sliding — the two-implant lower overdenture is a common example. In the upper jaw, four implants can allow a denture without palate coverage. Fully implant-supported fixed bridges, such as All-on-4 or All-on-6 designs, are screwed to the implants and only removed by the dentist. Implant options need adequate bone or grafting and minor surgery, so a CBCT scan and medical review come first. Dr. Manhal Helfawee discusses all suitable types, including non-implant ones, at consultation.

Modern dentures are designed for fit, bite and appearance. When a lower denture moves, two or more implants can hold it in place with click-in attachments.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Manhal Helfawee

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.