How much do dentures cost in Canada?

The average cost of dentures in Canada is $1,100, not factoring in lab and material costs. The cost of dentures relies on various factors like materials, geographical location, and complexity of the procedure. Other costs may be associated with dentures, such as tooth extractions, gum treatments, and x-rays.

In Canada, according to a study from the National Library of Medicine, 8% of Canadians older than 45 reported being edentulous, meaning lacking natural teeth. The study also reveals this percentage increases with age, with many participants having full or partial dentures instead of natural teeth.

While losing teeth may not always be avoidable, dentures are a custom-made solution for those who have lost their teeth to decay, gum disease, or other accidents. Dentures are a treatment within the field of prosthodontics, which focuses on dental prostheses to restore oral function such as eating and speaking.

Now that you know the significance of dentures, let's dive deeper into the different types of dentures available in Canada and their price ranges. These prices will give you an idea of how much you could spend based on your location.

Average cost of dentures

While the average cost of dentures in Canada is $1,100 per patient, the fulsome cost you incur can vary significantly based on several factors, like province, materials, and additional procedures in a treatment plan, which we will explore in detail in this guide.

Dentures generally cost more in high-cost-of-living provinces. For example, in British Columbia, the cost of dentures can range from $876 to $1531, while in Manitoba, it can range from $659 to $1082. However, it's important to note that these numbers reflect an initial estimate, and the final costs will vary based on your specific situation.

Average denture cost per jaw by province
Province	Complete dentures	Partial dentures
Alberta	$931 - $1,924	$268 - $1,195
British Columbia	$950 - $1,621	$562 - $1,584
Manitoba	$968 - $1,078	$642 - $1,109
New Brunswick	$912 - $1,622	$613 - $1,735
Newfoundland and Labrador	$1,063 - $1,375	$670 - $1,896
Nova Scotia	$902 - $1,892	$619 - $1,982
Ontario	$1,061 - $2,113	$645 - $2,465
Prince Edward Island	$909 - $1,339	$614 - $1,051
Quebec	$778 - $1,613	$536 - $1,380
Saskatchewan	$1,064 - $1,974	$389 - $1,300
*Data does not factor in lab costs, material expenses, or additional procedure costs. Does not factor in implant costs for implant-supported dentures, surgical costs, and costs for temporary dentures used before permanent fitting. Costs are based on the 2023 fee guides. Note: No data is available for the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon.

Complete conventional dentures

Complete conventional dentures are full sets of removable teeth that replace all natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw or both. The framework of these dentures consists of a base, prosthetic teeth, gum-colored acrylic, and palate coverage. Complete conventional denture feature:

Full sets of removable teeth replacement
Option for upper, lower, or both jaws
Custom-made base for stability
Ease of cleaning and adjustments

Equilibrated dentures

Equilibrated dentures or balanced dentures are a specialized type of complete denture that optimizes the bite and jaw alignment for improved function. These dentures aim to create a balanced occlusion, where the upper and lower teeth come together during chewing and speaking.

What sets these dentures apart is their focus to achieve balance in the bite. The initial impressions and measurements appointment with your prosthodontist will focus on the contours of your mouth and the alignment of your bite specifically.

Equilibrated denture features:

Primary focus on achieving bite balance
Emphasis on framework, mouth contours, and bite alignment
Arranges prosthetic teeth and denture base for even pressure distribution during biting

Permanent dentures

Permanent dentures refer to a complete full-arch dental restoration called "All-on-4 dental implants" or "All-on-4 dentures," and they get this name because they use four dental implants to support a full arch of teeth.

Unlike removable dentures, permanent dentures remain in the mouth as wearers do not need to clean them. Permanent dentures help preserve the jawbone, as they stimulate bone growth through osseointegration. In this process, a special metal post, like a screw, is put into your jawbone during dental implant surgery to facilitate jaw strength.

Permanent dentures:

Remain in the mouth
Preserve jawbone stability
Stimulate jaw bone growth

Partial conventional dentures

You will only need partial conventional dentures when only some teeth are missing. These types of dentures anchor to the remaining natural teeth with clasps or other connectors. Like complete conventional dentures, they have a removable framework.

The framework of these dentures consists of a base, prosthetic teeth, and metal clasps or precision attachments. They resemble complete dentures only in structure, as there are gaps for existing teeth.

Partial conventional denture features:

Designed for partial tooth loss
Anchored to remaining natural teeth
Removable framework for flexibility

Snap-on dentures

Snap-on dentures or implant-retained overdentures are a type of removable partial dental prosthesis that provides increased stability and support. They’re most useful in cases where patients have lost all or most of their teeth.

The framework of these dentures consists of a base, prosthetic teeth, and attachments.

Snap-on denture features:

Anchors to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone
Uses attachments for more stability
Provides more stability compared to conventional dentures

Temporary dentures

Temporary dentures, known as interim dentures or immediate dentures, are a temporary prosthesis solution while a patient is awaiting the fabrication of their permanent dentures or undergoing other dental treatments. They can be either partial or complete.

Patients wear temporary dentures before tooth extraction or any necessary dental surgery. Temporary dentures serve as a short-term solution to replace missing teeth immediately after tooth removal. They can provide functionality and aesthetics while your mouth heals.

Factors that affect denture costs

dentures

Each denture type will have factors that will influence the cost. These factors include materials for the denture base and prosthetic teeth, labor and expertise of your prosthodontist, complexity of design and aesthetics, and more. Let’s take a more detailed look at these factors below.

Type of denture

Complete conventional dentures

Materials are the primary cost driver for these dentures. Materials that provide better durability, comfort, and a more natural appearance will generally increase the final cost. Generally, porcelain teeth are the most costly, and composite resin teeth are the most affordable.

Equilibrated dentures

Equilibrated dentures may require prosthodontists to have further specialized training and expertise for design, which is the main cost influence for these dentures.

Equilibrated dentures involve a specialized approach to ensure a balanced bite and minimize the risk of jaw joint problems (TMJ disorders). Prosthodontists with additional training in occlusion (the way teeth come together) are more qualified to create equilibrated dentures.

Achieving proper occlusion and a balanced bite with equilibrated dentures requires precise adjustments during the fitting and follow-up appointments. The dental laboratory technician must carefully craft the dentures to meet the specific requirements, which may include specialized articulators (devices used to simulate jaw movements). This added labor factors into the final cost of these dentures.

Partial conventional dentures

Materials also factor into partial conventional denture costs in the same way they do for complete dentures. However, the biggest cost driver is the denture design complexity due to the number of teeth to be replaced and the use of precision attachments.

Snap-on dentures

The number of dental implants that support snap-on dentures is a primary cost determinant. Generally, the more dental implants required, the higher the overall cost. Depending on the specific case, as few as two implants or as many as four or more can support snap-on dentures.

The attachment system for snap-on dentures will also be a cost driver. There are two choices of attachment systems: ball attachments or locator attachments.

Ball attachments consist of a ball-shaped attachment on the dental implant side and a corresponding socket in the denture.

Locator attachments, or overdenture attachments, utilize a system of complementary components. One component affixes to the dental implant, while the other is incorporated into the denture. These components interlock or fit together to secure the denture in place.

While both systems are comparable in price, ball attachments can be slightly more expensive due to their increased complexity.

Denture size

The size of dentures, especially how many teeth they have and their overall dimensions, can make them more costly. Making larger dentures requires more materials. Crafting these dentures requires design expertise that prosthodontists pursue further specialization for, and it takes time to carefully shape and arrange all the teeth.

Bigger dentures may need to be more durable to handle the forces of chewing and talking. This can involve using better materials like higher quality resin and techniques like incorporating complex attachment systems.

Mechanics

Common methods for securing dentures, will depend on the type of denture that your provider recommends. Partial dentures rely on retaining some natural teeth, while a full-set of dentures is designed to grip your gums, in cases where all or some natural teeth cannot be retained. Clasps (traditional removable dentures) and dental implants (implant-retained dentures) are examples of how a provider may recommend securing your denture. Remember, each case is unique, and it’s best to check with your provider for the option most suitable to your situation:

Clasps: Traditional removable dentures use clasps to attach to your natural teeth. Designing, fitting, and adjusting traditional removable dentures is generally less complex than implant-retained dentures.
Dental implants: Implants are anchors for implant-retained dentures and are generally more costly due to the multiple implants required for the arch (typically two to four per arch).

Material

Denture costs can vary based on the materials used, as different options provide varying degrees of durability, aesthetics, comfort, and personalization. Below, we've compiled a list of materials categorized by their relative cost.

Porcelain (most expensive): Porcelain dentures come at a premium due to their resemblance to natural teeth and remarkable durability. With a resistance to staining, they stand as the preferred choice for those seeking the finest aesthetics.
Zirconia: While not as costly as porcelain, zirconia dentures still rank on the higher end of the cost spectrum, owing to their durability and lifelike resemblance to tooth enamel.
High-quality acrylic: These dentures represent an upgrade from basic acrylic dentures, offering a more natural appearance and enhanced longevity.
Basic acrylic: Serving as the standard denture material, basic acrylic dentures provide functional tooth replacement but may not match the natural look or durability of higher-quality alternatives like acrylic, zirconia, and porcelain.
Metal framework (for partial dentures): Certain partial dentures incorporate a metal framework, typically crafted from materials like chrome-cobalt or other metals, to provide added strength and support.
Composite resin dentures: Budget-friendly in nature, composite resin dentures may not achieve the same level of natural aesthetics or longevity as other materials due to their plastic composition. They are primarily suited for temporary dentures or cost-effective treatment plans.

Insurance coverage

While Canada boasts universal health care, dental coverage typically falls within the realm of private insurers. As a result, many people seeking dental services often opt for insurance plans specifically designed for dental care. Let's explore some ways in which insurance can lend a helping hand in financing the costs of dentures:

Coverage Percentage: Dental insurance plans can cover a portion of your denture expenses, usually around 50 to 60%, depending on the specific plan. This coverage percentage reduces the amount the patient has to pay for the dentures.
Policy limits: Dental insurance plans often set an annual maximum limit on coverage. For example, if the annual maximum is $1,500, your insurance plan will cover dental expenses, including dentures, up to that amount within the policy year. Once you hit this maximum, any additional costs become the patient’s responsibility.

If you’re curious about coverage, the best place to start is with your insurance provider. Some providers allow patients to check their coverage allotment and balances online. To find out how much you may be eligible for, contact your insurance provider to better understand the process and out of pocket costs.

Dentist experience

Practitioners with extensive experience and expertise tend to produce higher-quality dentures. More experienced professionals have refined skills in crafting dentures that fit well, function properly, and look natural. The quality of the denture work can justify a higher cost.

Some practitioners take it a step further by pursuing advanced training in prosthodontics, which can result in slightly higher fees. Prosthodontists, in particular, have specialized education and extensive clinical training in all aspects of dentures. and other dental prosthetics.

Additional procedures

The complexity of dentures can increase depending on the number of procedures required in your treatment plan. The most common procedures for dentures include:

Extractions to remove natural teeth for denture placement
Gum treatments to reshape gums to fit better with dentures
X-rays to diagnose the oral health of patients
Impressions and measurements of the mouth for precise positioning of dentures
Fitting and adjustment appointments to check for fit, comfort, and function

Below are the average costs of these procedures.

Cost of additional procedures
Type	Average price
Extractions	$80 - $589 per tooth
Gum treatments	$117 - $372
X-rays	$20 - $278
Immediate/Temporary Dentures (Complete)	$474 - $1,250
Immediate/Temporary Dentures (Partial)	$268 - $1,373
Fitting and adjustments	$80 - $796
Repair and Additions	$37 - $213
REPLICATION, RELINING AND REBASING	$41 - $528
*Data does not factor in lab costs, material expenses, or additional procedure costs.

How to pay for dentures in Canada

In Canada, you have several options for covering the costs of dentures, and the right choice depends on your financial situation, dental coverage, and personal preferences.

Dental insurance: Dental insurance plans in Canada can vary widely in terms of coverage. However, some plans include dental procedures like dentures. Depending on your specific plan, you can typically expect it to cover a portion of your denture expenses, which helps reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Learn more about dental insurance.
Out-of-pocket: If you don't have dental insurance or your coverage is limited, you can choose to pay for dentures entirely out of your own pocket. In this scenario, you're responsible for covering the full cost of your denture treatment.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA): For employed individuals, a Health Savings Account (HSA) can be a useful option. You can allocate a portion of your pre-tax salary to your HSA through your employer, and these funds can be utilized for various medical expenses, including dental procedures.
Payment plans: Many dental practices offer convenient payment plans or financing options to make things easier for their patients. These plans allow you to spread the cost of your dentures over several months or even years, making it more financially manageable.
Dental assistance programs: Some provinces in Canada offer public health care programs that offer limited dental coverage for specific populations, such as low-income individuals, seniors, or children. These programs may offer partial coverage for basic dentures or emergency dental care.
Financing: Another viable option is exploring personal loans from banks or financial institutions to finance your dentures.

Each of these options has its own advantages and considerations, so it's essential to evaluate them in light of your unique circumstances.

how to pay for dentures?

How to save on dentures

While there are multiple ways to finance dentures, there are also multiple ways to save on their cost. Below are some options to consider in addition to your financing methods.

Shop around for a dentist: Just as you would for any significant purchase, get estimates from multiple dentists or prosthodontists. Prices for dentures in Canada can vary, so comparing quotes helps you identify options that match your budget.
Volunteer as a dental school patient: Some dental schools offer reduced-cost or even free dental care to patients willing to be treated by dental students under the supervision of experienced faculty members. While treatment may take longer, it can be an economical choice.
Check if you qualify for government programs: Review this guide to see if your province or territory in Canada offers government assistance programs or subsidies for dental care, particularly for low-income individuals or seniors.
Consider partial dentures: Depending on your dental needs, partial dentures may be a more cost-effective than complete dentures. These appliances replace only a portion of your teeth.
Don’t delay treatment: If your dentist recommends dentures or any necessary dental work, avoid delaying treatment. Delaying can lead to more extensive and costly procedures down the road.

Frequently asked questions

There’s a lot to consider when deciding to get dentures, especially with costs and different procedure options. Below, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help you.

What is the average cost of dentures with extractions?

The average cost of dentures with extractions in Canada is $1,168.

Please note that denture costs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the number of extractions, the type of dentures chosen, the materials used, the region of Canada where you receive treatment, and the specific dentist or prosthodontist you visit.

Does insurance cover dentures?

In Canada, dental insurance coverage for dentures varies depending on the specific insurance plan and provider. Employers can offer dental insurance plans, or you can purchase them individually or obtain them through government programs.

How long does it take to get dentures?

The timeline for getting dentures can vary depending on the type of dentures needed, the complexity of the case, and the specific dental practice. On average, getting dentures in Canada can take several weeks to a few months.

What is the difference between dentures and implants?

Dentures are removable or permanent dental appliances made from materials like acrylic or porcelain.

They consist of artificial teeth set in a gum-colored base and sit on the gums. Dentures are, in most instances, a non-surgical solution for replacing missing teeth and rely on the gums and, in the case of partial dentures, remaining natural teeth for support. Snap on dentures, for which metal posts are surgically implanted into the jawbone, are the exception.

Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Over time, they fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a strong and permanent foundation for individual crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants are a more permanent solution for missing teeth and the wearer doesn’t need to remove them for cleaning.

Dentures vs. veneers: what is the difference?

Dentures are removable dental appliances to replace multiple missing teeth, partially or entirely. They serve a dual purpose, addressing both functionality and aesthetics. Dentures are constructed from materials like acrylic or porcelain, featuring artificial teeth set in a gum-colored base. They cover a larger portion of the oral cavity, making them suitable for individuals with significant tooth loss.

Veneers, in contrast, are thin, custom-made shells primarily for cosmetic purposes. These shells, typically made from porcelain or composite resin, bond to the front surface of existing teeth to enhance their appearance. Veneers don’t replace missing teeth or restore functionality. Instead, they conceal imperfections like staining, chips, or minor misalignment.

Are there alternatives to dentures?

Dental implants are a permanent alternative to dentures. They mimic natural teeth and require less maintenance. However, the choice between the two will be based on the extent of your oral health, tooth loss, and budget. Dentures are generally better for those who’ve lost most of their natural teeth. In contrast, implants are more useful for those who need a few implants for a few missing teeth. Additionally, the upfront costs of dental implants can exceed dentures depending on the number of implants.

Are dentures worth the cost?

Dentures provide a functional and aesthetic solution for those dealing with tooth loss due to factors such as decay, gum disease, dental infections, or shifting teeth. They restore the ability to bite, chew, and speak effectively and alleviate the discomfort of missing teeth.These benefits are long-lasting solutions that impact your quality of life. While they’re not the only option, they are a viable one worth it for many.

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*The content provided in this article, including text, graphics, and referenced material, is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article. If you believe you have a dental emergency, contact your dentist, or seek immediate assistance from an oral healthcare professional.