Partial dentures cost $1,250 to $3,280 per arch in 2026
Pearl's May 2026 figures, built on ADA fee survey data, put a metal frame partial denture at $1,250 to $3,280 per arch, about $1,920 on average. Metal frames can last 10 years or more, while flexible and acrylic partials usually need replacing every 5 to 7 years. Most PPO plans pay about 50 percent.
What you may pay
| Metal frame partial | $1,250 to $3,280, about $1,920 (Pearl, May 2026). |
|---|---|
| Flexible plastic | Looks better, wears out sooner. |
| All acrylic | Cheapest and least durable. |
| With insurance | Often about half, once every 5 years. |
| Visits | Usually 3 to 5 over 4 to 8 weeks. |
What pushes a quote up
| Material | Metal, flexible or acrylic. |
|---|---|
| Number of teeth | More teeth cost more. |
| Clasps and fit | Complex fits take more lab time. |
| Lab | Premium labs cost more. |
| Implant support | A costly upgrade. |
Partial dentures cost by region
| Lower cost states | $1,000 to $2,600. Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, West Virginia and most rural areas. |
|---|---|
| Average cost states | $1,250 to $3,280. Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and most mid size cities. |
| Higher cost states | $1,625 to $4,300. California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Washington, plus big metros such as Chicago, Denver and Washington DC. |
These rows are our estimate. We took the typical national range and adjusted it for local labor costs, which run about 20 percent lower in the cheapest states and about 30 percent higher in the dearest ones. Suburban and community offices often charge 15 to 30 percent less than dense metro practices.
Partial denture, bridge or implants
A partial denture replaces some missing teeth and clips onto the teeth you still have. It comes out for cleaning and at night. Pearl notes it is usually the cheapest way to fill several gaps, but it takes some getting used to.
If you are missing one tooth, compare a bridge or an implant. If you are missing all your teeth in an arch, see full dentures. Ask how visible the metal clasps will be, since clasps near the front can show when you smile.
How to judge the quote in your hand
- Ask which material and why.
- Ask how visible the clasps will be.
- Ask how many adjustments are included.
- Ask the repair price.
- Ask how long it should last.
Ways to pay less
- Use your PPO plan.
- Check a dental school clinic.
- Try a dental savings plan.
- Choose metal for the longest life.
Before you decide
This page covers prices only. It is not medical or dental advice. Talk to a licensed provider about what treatment you need, and ask for a written estimate and your insurer's pre-authorization before you start.
What will this cost me?
Pick the job, your state's cost level and the last detail. The estimate updates as you change them.
An estimate built from published 2026 cost guides. It is not a quote. Get a written quote before work starts.
Common questions
How much do partial dentures cost?
About $1,250 to $3,280 per arch, around $1,920 on average.
Are flexible partials cheaper?
They often cost similar or less but wear out sooner.
Does insurance cover partials?
Most PPO plans pay about 50 percent, often once every 5 years.
How long does a partial last?
Metal frames can last 10 years or more.