Best Dental Insurance for Dentures (2026)

Dentures are one of the most common dental solutions for people who have lost multiple teeth. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 26% of adults aged 65 to 74 have lost all of their natural teeth, and many more have lost some. Whether you need full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures, the cost can be substantial, and finding the right dental insurance plan to help cover that cost requires some research.

This guide covers the types of dentures available, how dental insurance covers them, what to look for in a plan, and strategies to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Plans and coverage vary by location, so always check the specific details of any plan available in your area.

Types of Dentures and Their Costs

Dentures come in several forms, each suited to different situations. The type you need affects both the cost and how insurance applies to the procedure.

Full Dentures (Complete Dentures)

Full dentures replace all of the teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. They rest on the gums and are held in place by suction and sometimes adhesive. Conventional full dentures are placed after any remaining teeth are extracted and the gums have healed, which typically takes 8 to 12 weeks. Immediate dentures can be placed the same day as extractions but may need more adjustments as the jaw heals.

Cost without insurance: $1,000 to $5,000 for a single arch (upper or lower). Basic economy dentures are at the lower end, while premium dentures made with higher-quality materials are at the upper end. A complete set for both arches can cost $2,000 to $10,000.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures replace some teeth while your remaining natural teeth stay in place. They attach to your natural teeth with clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures are removable and can be an alternative to bridges when you have multiple gaps but still have healthy teeth to anchor the prosthesis.

Cost without insurance: $700 to $2,500. Cast metal partial dentures tend to be more durable and cost more, while acrylic partials are less expensive but may not last as long.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. They are more stable than traditional dentures, do not slip, and help preserve jawbone density. The trade-off is a much higher cost and a more involved treatment process. For more on implant coverage, see our guide to the best dental insurance for implants.

Cost without insurance: $15,000 to $30,000 for a full arch. The cost includes the implant posts, the denture framework, and the prosthetic teeth. Treatment typically requires multiple appointments over several months.

How Dental Insurance Covers Dentures

Most dental insurance plans classify dentures as a major service. This classification affects how much the plan will pay and when coverage begins. Here is how the typical coverage structure works:

• Coverage level: Plans typically cover dentures at about 50% of the cost after you meet the annual deductible. This is the standard coinsurance rate for major dental services across most plan types.
• Annual maximum: Most plans have an annual maximum between $1,000 and $2,000. If your dentures cost $3,000 and the plan covers 50%, the plan's portion would be $1,500, but a $1,000 annual maximum would cap the payout at $1,000.
• Waiting period: A waiting period of 12 months is common for denture coverage. During the waiting period, you pay premiums but cannot use the benefit for dentures. Preventive services like cleanings are usually available immediately.
• Frequency limits: Most plans will pay for new dentures once every 5 to 10 years. Relines are typically allowed once every 2 to 3 years. Adjustments and repairs may be covered more frequently.
• Reline and repair coverage: Dentures need periodic relining as your jawbone changes shape over time. Relining costs $300 to $500 without insurance. Many plans cover relines at 50% to 80%, and some classify them as basic rather than major services.

What to Look for in a Dental Plan for Dentures

If you know you will need dentures, focus on these plan features when comparing your options:

1. High annual maximum: Look for plans with annual maximums of $1,500 or more. A higher maximum means the plan covers a larger share of your denture cost. Some plans offer maximums of $2,500 to $5,000, though premiums will be higher.
2. Short or no waiting period: If you need dentures soon, a plan with no waiting period or a short waiting period of 6 months may be worth the higher premium. Compare the total cost of premiums plus your expected out-of-pocket share.
3. Coverage for related services: Dentures often require extractions, impressions, and follow-up adjustments. Make sure the plan covers these related services and check whether they count toward the same annual maximum.
4. Reline and repair coverage: Since dentures need maintenance over time, check that the plan covers relines, repairs, and adjustments. Plans that classify these as basic services (covered at 80%) rather than major services (covered at 50%) offer better value for ongoing denture care.
5. Network dentists with denture expertise: Verify that the plan's network includes prosthodontists or general dentists experienced in fitting dentures. A well-fitted denture makes a significant difference in comfort and function.

Plan Types That Cover Dentures

Different dental plan structures handle denture coverage in different ways. For a detailed comparison of plan types, see our guide on DHMO vs. PPO dental insurance.

• PPO plans: PPO dental plans are the most common option for denture coverage. They typically cover dentures at 50% after the deductible. You can see any dentist, with lower costs in-network. Monthly premiums range from $30 to $60. The main limitation is the annual maximum.
• DHMO plans: DHMO plans use fixed copays for each service, including dentures. The copay for full dentures might range from $300 to $800 depending on the plan. There is usually no annual maximum, which can make a DHMO more cost-effective for dentures than a PPO. However, you must use an assigned in-network dentist.
• Dental discount plans: Discount plans are not insurance but can save 10% to 60% on denture costs at participating providers. They have no waiting periods and no annual maximums. A discount plan can be used alone or alongside insurance to cover costs beyond the annual maximum.

Medicare Advantage Dental Coverage for Dentures

Original Medicare does not cover dentures. However, many Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits that may cover a portion of denture costs. For full details on Medicare and dental, see our guide on whether Medicare covers dental services.

According to CMS data, approximately 98% of Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 offer some dental benefit. Many of these include comprehensive dental coverage that extends to major services like dentures. Benefits vary widely between plans, but here is what to expect:

• Annual dental maximums of $1,000 to $3,000, with some plans offering higher limits
• No waiting periods for dental benefits in most cases
• Copays or coinsurance for dentures, which vary by plan
• Network requirements that may limit which dentists and prosthodontists you can see

The main advantage of Medicare Advantage dental benefits for dentures is that there is typically no waiting period. If you enroll in a plan during open enrollment and it starts in January, you could begin the denture process right away. Compare plans on Medicare.gov to find those that specifically cover dentures and offer a dental maximum that aligns with your expected costs.

Strategies to Reduce Denture Costs

Even with insurance, you may face significant out-of-pocket costs for dentures. Here are strategies to help manage the expense:

• Plan ahead and enroll early: If dentures are in your future, enroll in a dental plan at least 12 months before you expect to need them. This gives you time to satisfy the waiting period while using the plan for preventive care.
• Stagger treatment across benefit years: If you need both upper and lower dentures, consider getting one set near the end of a calendar year and the other at the beginning of the next year. This lets you use two annual maximums.
• Use a dental discount plan: A discount plan can save 10% to 60% on denture costs at participating providers. Use it alongside insurance to cover amounts that exceed your annual maximum.
• Explore dental schools: Many dental schools with prosthodontic programs offer dentures at reduced rates. The work is performed by dental residents under faculty supervision. Quality is typically high, though the process may take longer.
• Check Medicaid coverage: If you qualify for Medicaid or are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, your state's Medicaid program may cover dentures. Benefits vary by state, and some states cover full and partial dentures while others have limited dental benefits.
• Use HSA or FSA funds: If you have a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account, you can pay for dentures with pre-tax dollars. This gives you a savings equal to your marginal tax rate on the amount spent.

Caring for Your Dentures to Avoid Extra Costs

Proper denture care can extend their lifespan and reduce the need for repairs, relines, and replacements. Following these practices can help you avoid unexpected dental expenses:

• Clean dentures daily with a soft brush and denture cleanser, not regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive.
• Remove dentures at night to give your gums time to rest and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
• Handle dentures carefully. They can break if dropped, so clean them over a folded towel or a basin of water.
• Visit your dentist regularly, even with full dentures. Your dentist can check the fit, make adjustments, and screen for oral health issues.
• Get relines as recommended. As your jawbone naturally changes shape over time, your dentures will need to be relined to maintain a proper fit.

The Bottom Line

Dentures are a significant dental expense, with full dentures costing $1,000 to $5,000 and implant-supported dentures running $15,000 to $30,000. Dental insurance can help cover a portion of these costs, but annual maximums and waiting periods mean you will still pay a meaningful share out of pocket. The best strategy is to plan ahead, choose a plan with a high annual maximum and short waiting period, and use complementary approaches like discount plans, dental schools, or HSA funds to manage the remaining costs.

For Medicare beneficiaries, Original Medicare does not cover dentures, but many Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits with no waiting period. Compare plans in your area to find the best fit for your denture needs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental costs continue to rise about 3% per year, making coverage planning an important part of your overall health care strategy.

Plans and coverage vary by location. This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute individual advice. Contact a licensed insurance agent or your dental provider to explore the specific options available to you.