Note: This article is for general information purposes and does not replace individual dental advice.
A denture is a proven and versatile solution when several or all teeth are missing. Modern dentures today offer considerably better wearing comfort and a more natural appearance than just a few years ago. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the types, costs and care of dentures.
Types of dentures
Partial denture
A partial denture is used when some natural teeth are still present but several teeth are missing. It is attached to the existing teeth and fills the tooth gaps.
- Clasp denture: The simplest option. Metal clasps grip the existing teeth and hold the denture in place. Standard care with a fixed subsidy from the health insurance fund
- Telescopic denture: Higher quality and more stable. Inner crowns are fitted to the remaining teeth, onto which the denture is attached with matching outer crowns. Very good hold
- Precision attachment denture: Attached by means of small, invisible precision attachments on crowns or bridges. Aesthetically high quality, as no clasps are visible
Full denture (complete denture)
If all the teeth in one or both jaws are missing, a full denture is made. It rests on the jaw ridge and is held in place in the upper jaw by suction against the palate and in the lower jaw by the natural shape of the jaw.
Implant-supported denture
The most comfortable solution: dental implants are anchored in the jaw and serve as fixed anchor points for the denture. Just 2 to 4 implants can give a full denture a considerably better hold. Advantages:
- Secure hold – no slipping when eating or speaking
- No large palatal plate needed in the upper jaw (better sense of taste)
- Prevents further bone loss
- Removable for cleaning (with bar or press-stud attachment)
The denture treatment process
- Consultation and planning: Examination of your mouth and discussion of the options
- Impressions: Precise impressions of both jaws for making the models
- Bite registration: Determining the correct jaw relationship and tooth position
- Tooth selection: Together we choose suitable tooth shapes and shades
- Try-in: The denture is set up in wax and fitted for you to try. Changes are still easy to make at this stage
- Completion: Our in-house dental laboratory makes the final denture
- Fitting: The finished denture is fitted and adjusted
- Aftercare: After a few days, we check the fit and make corrections if necessary
Cost of dentures
Statutory health insurance pays a fixed subsidy based on the diagnosis – not on the restoration chosen. This means you receive the same subsidy whether you opt for a simple clasp denture or a high-quality telescopic denture.
- Clasp denture (standard care): The co-payment is lowest, as the fixed subsidy covers a large part of the costs
- Telescopic denture: Higher co-payment, but considerably better wearing comfort and hold
- Implant-supported denture: The cost of the implants is added to the price of the denture
Anyone who has kept their bonus booklet (Bonusheft) without any gaps for 5 or 10 years receives an increased subsidy (70 % or 75 % instead of 60 % of standard care). Guide values for the co-payment can be found on our dental prosthetics page. We also offer payment by instalments.
Caring for and handling dentures
Daily cleaning
- Rinse the denture under running water after every meal
- Clean daily with a special denture brush and denture cleaner
- Do not use normal toothpaste – the abrasive particles can roughen the surface of the denture
- Also brush your own remaining teeth and gums thoroughly
Night-time care
Whether the denture should be worn at night is something we discuss with you individually. In general, it is advisable to give the gums a break from the denture for several hours a day. Keep the denture in a clean container overnight – dry or in a cleaning solution.
Regular check-ups
Dentures should be checked by the dentist at least once a year. The jawbone changes over time, so the denture needs to be adjusted or relined to ensure it continues to fit well.
Getting used to the denture
The first few days with a new denture require patience:
- Start with soft food and chew on both sides at the same time
- Read aloud to get used to the change in pronunciation
- Slight pressure points in the first few days are normal – come in for an adjustment
- Most patients get used to the denture within 2 to 4 weeks
Advice at our practice in Düsseldorf
Do you need a denture or would you like to replace your existing denture? We advise you on all options and make your denture in our in-house dental laboratory. Make an appointment: 0211 – 497 67 69.
This article is for general information purposes and does not replace professional dental advice. If you have symptoms, please contact your dentist.
