The term ‘dentures’ can sometimes bring to mind a fully removable set of teeth sitting in a glass of water on the bedside table. But modern dentistry has come a long way. Today, dentures include a range of options, from fully removable prostheses that replace missing teeth and sit directly on the gums, while some are implant-retained or implant-supported and provide a more long-term solution to tooth loss.

Traditional dentures can sometimes slip or feel unstable, which is why many people look at implant options.  If you are exploring the options of dental implants or implant dentures, we at Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre can help. As a leading provider of All-on-4 in Wollongong, as well as other specialist dental treatments in the Illawarra, we pride ourselves on bringing quality care to our local community.

In this guide, we will break down the available types of dentures in Australia, the costs involved, and materials used, as well as how Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre can help you make an informed decision.

What are the different types of dentures and prices?

So, what are the different types of dentures?

There are several different kinds of traditional dentures, as well as certain implant-supported prosthetics that are sometimes referred to as dentures. The main distinction is that traditional dentures (either partial or full) sit on the gum. On the other hand, dental implants are used with dentures for:

• Implant‑retained, sometimes called implant dentures or snap‑on dentures: These are dentures that clip onto dental implants placed in your jaw. You can remove them daily (for cleaning and sleeping), but the implants keep them stable so they don’t move around as much as traditional dentures. Because they attach to implants, they generally have better fit and function than regular dentures.
• All‑on‑X, which are also called implant‑supported dentures : This refers to a fixed solution where a full set of replacement teeth is permanently supported by several implants (often four, hence ‘All‑on‑4’). These cannot be removed by you. Only your dentist takes them out as needed, so they function more like natural teeth with very high stability.

The below table gives a more detailed overview of the various types of dentures, materials, and associated costs:

How to choose the right type of dentures?

There are different types of dentures for different tooth loss scenarios. At Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre, we know that every smile is different which is why a personalised treatment plan is essential. In addition to restoring function and correcting bite issues, we use the latest in Digital Smile Design technology to ensure an outcome that is uniquely you applying a holistic approach to match the teeth shape, colour and size to your face.

Your specialist dentist in Wollongong will be best positioned to advise you on tooth loss solutions, but in general:

• If you are missing all your teeth and want a straightforward, removable solution, full (complete) dentures may be the right choice.
• If you still have some healthy teeth and want to fill the gaps, then partial dentures may be best. These clip onto your remaining teeth to support chewing and speech without replacing an entire arch. They are often lighter and more comfortable than full dentures and preserve the structure of your mouth.
• If you want teeth right away after extractions, you may choose immediate dentures. These are a transitional solution, with a final prosthesis fitted once your gums have healed.
• If you want a denture that feels more secure than a traditional plate, implant‑retained dentures (also called implant dentures or “snap‑on dentures”) might be for you. These can still come out for cleaning, but the stability when eating and talking is significantly better than basic removable dentures.
• If your priority is the most natural feel and function possible, you might consider implant‑supported fixed dentures (sometimes described as All‑on‑X or All-on-4). These are a type of permanent dentures, and only your dentist can remove them. They are the closest replacement to natural teeth in terms of chewing ability, and they fully preserve jawbone health.

When to replace your dentures?

Over time, dentures naturally wear down and the shape of your mouth changes, so they won’t fit as well forever. Most dentures last about 5–10 years before they need replacing.

Regular dental check‑ups help track how well they fit and function, but you might consider a replacement sooner if they:

• Feel loose
• Cause discomfort or sores
• Make it harder to eat or speak
• Show visible wear like cracks or stains.

How Southern Dental and Implant Centre can help

At Southern Dental Specialists & Implant Centre, we combine specialist experience and advanced technology to design dentures. That not only restores function but also enhances your smile and confidence. 

As Wollongong locals, our mission was always clear: to bring premium specialist dental care and a first-class patient experience home to our Illawarra community.

If you’re unsure as to what kind of dentures are right for you, the best way forward is booking an initial consultation with our team.