Dentures in Australia: a plain guide

Last reviewed: 2 November 2026

Dentures (sometimes called false teeth or plates) are removable replacements for missing teeth. This guide explains the main types, who can make them, what to expect and how to look after them. It is general information only. A dental practitioner can advise what suits your mouth.

Who makes dentures

The Better Health Channel says dentures can be made by a dentist, a dental prosthetist or a specialist prosthodontist. Queensland Health describes dental prosthetists as dental technicians who have completed further study so they can work directly with patients to make, maintain and remove appliances such as dentures and mouthguards. Dentists, dental prosthetists and prosthodontists are all registered with the Dental Board of Australia. The Australian Dental Association (ADA) notes that a dentist cannot call themselves a specialist unless they are registered with the Dental Board as a dental specialist.

Types of dentures

Healthdirect and the Better Health Channel describe:

• Full (complete) dentures. Used when all the teeth in one jaw are missing.
• Partial dentures. Replace some missing teeth when other natural teeth remain. They may be plastic, or plastic with a metal frame, and often have small clasps that rest on natural teeth.
• Implant-retained dentures. Healthdirect says some dentures can be attached to dental implants. See the dental implants guide.

What the process involves

Dentures are made to fit your mouth, so the Better Health Channel says you will usually need several visits for measurements and fitting. Your practitioner will first check that any remaining teeth and gums are healthy enough to support a denture.

If you have recently had teeth removed, the Better Health Channel says measurements usually start about 2 to 3 months later, to let the gums and bone heal. Another option is an immediate denture, which is made before teeth are removed and fitted on the same day. Because the gums and bone change as they heal, immediate dentures may need adjusting or relining. The Better Health Channel also notes that all dentures may need to be relined or replaced over time as your gums change.

Getting used to dentures

New dentures often feel unusual. Healthdirect says most people take a few months to get used to them. The Better Health Channel suggests:

• starting with soft foods, eating slowly and cutting food into small pieces
• expecting speech to feel different at first
• asking about denture adhesive if your dentures feel loose

Losing teeth can also be an emotional change. The Better Health Channel suggests talking with your dental practitioner if you feel worried about getting dentures.

Caring for your dentures

The Better Health Channel and healthdirect suggest:

• Take dentures out at night to give your mouth a rest.
• Brush dentures every day with a denture brush and mild soap and water, or a denture cleaner. Toothpaste is not recommended, as it can scratch them.
• Clean over a basin of water or a towel, so they are less likely to break if dropped.
• Never use hot water, which can change their shape and fit.
• Brush any natural teeth with fluoride toothpaste, and gently brush your gums and the roof of your mouth.

When to go back

Healthdirect says to see your dentist or dental prosthetist if you have soreness, bleeding, swelling or ulcers, and to have the fit of your dentures checked at least once a year. The Better Health Channel also lists dentures that do not fit well, ulcers that last more than two weeks, and soreness or cracks at the corners of your mouth. Ask your practitioner how often you should have your dentures checked.

Costs

Costs vary between practices and denture types. Ask for a written quote with item numbers and check what your health fund may cover. Public dental services in each state and territory may provide dentures to eligible people, often with a waiting list. See public and private dental care and health funds and HICAPS.

General information, not medical or dental advice. Speak to a registered dental practitioner about your situation.