Quick answer. Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. A full (complete) denture replaces all teeth in a jaw; a partial denture fills in gaps among remaining natural teeth. They are commonly made from acrylic (plastic), metal (cobalt-chrome) or flexible nylon, and implant-supported overdentures clip onto implants for a more secure fit. Most people adapt over a few weeks of eating and speaking practice. Clean dentures daily with a soft brush (no toothpaste), remove them at night, and store them in water. In Singapore, costs vary widely by type and clinic; eligible Singaporeans can receive CHAS subsidies for dentures at participating clinics (claimable once the multi-visit treatment is completed).
Losing teeth affects how you chew, speak and smile, and can shift remaining teeth out of place. Dentures are a long-established, removable way to replace one, several or all missing teeth. Modern dentures come in several materials and designs, and some can be stabilised by dental implants for a firmer fit.
This guide explains who needs dentures, the main types available in Singapore, how to settle in to wearing them, daily care, typical cost ranges, and how CHAS subsidies can help eligible Singaporeans at participating clinics.
At a glance
| Type | Made from | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic (plastic) | Acrylic resin base and teeth | Lower cost; bulkier; may need replacing/relining over time; more prone to fracture |
| Metal (cobalt-chrome) | Slim metal base, usually partial | Thin, strong and durable; better fit feel; usually higher cost than acrylic |
| Flexible (nylon) | Flexible nylon-type material | Lightweight, gum-coloured clasps, comfortable for some; not suitable for every case |
| Implant-supported overdenture | Denture that clips onto implants | Much more stable for eating/speaking; needs implants; higher overall cost |
Who needs dentures?
Dentures may be recommended when you have lost teeth through decay, gum disease, trauma or extraction. A complete (full) denture replaces all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while a partial denture replaces a few missing teeth and clasps onto your remaining natural teeth.
Replacing missing teeth is not only about appearance. Gaps can make chewing harder, affect speech and nutrition, and allow neighbouring teeth to drift or tilt. Your dentist will compare dentures with other options such as bridges or implants based on your oral health, number of teeth involved and budget.
Types of dentures and materials
- Acrylic dentures: a plastic (acrylic resin) base and teeth. They are generally the most affordable but are bulkier, can wear over time and may crack more easily.
- Metal (cobalt-chrome) dentures: a slim, sturdy metal base – commonly used for partial dentures. They are thinner and more durable, though usually costlier.
- Flexible (nylon) dentures: made from a soft, flexible material that adapts to the mouth and uses gum-coloured clasps. Some people find them comfortable, but they are not suitable for every situation.
- Implant-supported overdentures: dentures that clip onto dental implants for far greater stability when eating and speaking. They cost more and require implant surgery.
Getting used to your new dentures
New dentures can feel bulky or strange at first, and you may notice increased saliva or minor speech changes. This usually settles within a few weeks as your cheeks, tongue and lips adapt.
- Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, and chew slowly on both sides.
- Practise speaking out loud; reading aloud helps you adjust faster.
- Mild sore spots are common early on – return to your dentist for adjustment rather than enduring pain.
- If a denture is loose, denture adhesive may help temporarily, but persistent looseness should be reviewed by your dentist.
How to care for dentures
- Clean daily: brush all surfaces with a soft brush and water or a denture cleaner – avoid regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and scratch the acrylic.
- Remove at night: taking dentures out lets your gums rest and reduces infection risk.
- Keep them moist: store overnight in water or denture solution, as they can lose shape if allowed to dry out.
- Care for your mouth: clean any remaining teeth, gums and tongue, and keep up regular dental check-ups.
- Handle dentures over a folded towel or basin of water so they don’t break if dropped.
Cost and CHAS subsidies for dentures
Denture costs in Singapore vary widely depending on whether the denture is full or partial, the material chosen, the number of teeth and the clinic. Implant-supported overdentures cost considerably more because of the implants involved. Ask your clinic for a written estimate before starting.
Eligible Singaporeans can receive CHAS subsidies for dentures at participating CHAS clinics. Higher subsidies apply for Pioneer Generation, Merdeka Generation, CHAS Blue and CHAS Orange cardholders. Because dentures involve multiple visits, the subsidy is generally claimed only once treatment is completed. Note that dentures are routine (non-surgical) dental work, so they are not MediSave-claimable.
What to expect when getting dentures
Getting dentures usually takes several visits over a few weeks. The dentist takes impressions, records how your jaws meet, checks a trial set-up for fit and appearance, and then fits the finished denture, adjusting it as needed. If teeth are being removed first, you may have an immediate denture fitted on the same day while the gums heal, with relining or replacement later as the gums settle. Mild soreness and a few adjustment visits are normal early on – return to your dentist for these rather than enduring discomfort or filing the denture yourself.
Settling in and daily care
- Start with soft foods cut small, chewing slowly on both sides.
- Read aloud to get used to speaking with the denture.
- Brush the denture daily with a soft brush and water or denture cleaner, not abrasive toothpaste.
- Remove dentures at night to rest your gums, and store them in water so they do not dry out.
Costs and subsidies
Costs vary with the type, material and number of teeth, and implant-supported overdentures cost more because of the implants. Ask for a written estimate first. Eligible Singaporeans can receive CHAS subsidies for dentures at participating clinics, with higher support for Pioneer and Merdeka Generation and CHAS Blue and Orange cardholders; this is usually claimed once the multi-visit treatment is complete. Routine dentures are not MediSave-claimable.
Common questions
How long until I get used to them?
Most people adapt within a few weeks as the cheeks, tongue and lips adjust. Increased saliva and minor speech changes early on usually settle.
Why has my denture become loose over time?
Gums and jawbone change shape over the years, so dentures may need relining or remaking. See your dentist rather than relying on adhesive long term.
Related guides
- Best Dental Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- dental clinics directory
- Crowns & bridges
- Children's dentistry
- Dental emergencies & toothache
Sources
- HealthHub – Dentures (types and care)
- CHAS – Dental Subsidies
- MOH – Enhanced financing support for CHAS dental procedures
- National Dental Centre Singapore
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