Dentures

What is a denture?

A denture replaces missing teeth. It can be partial, when you still have some of your own teeth, or full, when all the upper or lower teeth are missing. These dentures are removable: you take them out to clean them.

Replacing teeth helps you chew better and speak more clearly, and stops neighboring teeth from drifting into the gap.

Types of dentures

• Acrylic partial: the simplest option.
• Flexible partial: no visible metal clasps.
• Metal partial (cobalt-chrome): thinner and more stable.
• Acrylic full denture: the traditional complete denture.
• Immediate denture: fitted the same day teeth are removed, while the gums heal.

The doctor recommends a type based on your remaining teeth, your gums and your budget.

What happens at the appointments?

1. The doctor examines your mouth and takes X-rays if needed.
2. She takes impressions or a digital scan of your gums and teeth.
3. She checks your bite, and together you choose the shade and shape of the teeth.
4. She delivers the denture and adjusts it.
5. At follow-up visits she fixes any spot that rubs or hurts.

How long does it take?

It usually takes several visits over a few weeks, because the denture is made in a dental lab and tried in before it is finished.

The first few days

At first it is normal for the denture to feel big, for your speech to sound a little different, or to have more saliva. Start with soft food cut into small pieces. If something hurts, do not wait: send us a message and we will adjust it.

Aftercare

• Clean it every day with a brush and mild soap, over a sink filled with water so it does not break if you drop it.
• Take it out at night if the doctor tells you to, and keep it in water.
• Over the years your gums change and a denture can loosen. A reline makes it fit again.

Approximate prices

The doctor's fees follow the minimum fee schedule of the Colegio de Cirujanos Dentistas de Costa Rica, the national dental board (published January 2025). These are the minimum fees for this treatment, in US dollars:

Every first visit includes a general oral exam and X-rays. From there, we prepare a treatment plan and a quote.

Dollar amounts are converted at ₡450 per US dollar. The official fees are in Costa Rican colones, so the amount in dollars can change slightly with the exchange rate. The final price depends on your case, and the doctor confirms it after examining you. You can pay in cash, by card or with SINPE Móvil.