Denture tooth addition — extend your existing denture
Lost another tooth? You may not need an entirely new denture. In many cases, we can add a tooth to your existing partial denture — seamlessly matching the colour and shape, quickly and affordably.
WHAT IS A TOOTH ADDITION
Add a tooth to your partial denture without starting from scratch
When you lose a tooth and you already wear a partial denture, you may have two options: a brand new denture, or a tooth addition to your existing one. A tooth addition involves modifying your current partial denture to include the new gap — adding a prosthetic tooth that matches your existing teeth in shape, size and shade.
This approach is significantly more affordable than a full replacement and can usually be completed in one or two appointments. Tooth additions work best on acrylic partial dentures — metal framework partials can also be modified in some cases, depending on the position of the new gap.
Did you know? We can add the tooth prior to your extractions and they can be fitted on the same day as your extractions, so you're never left without a smile during the healing process.
THE PROCESS
How a tooth addition works
A straightforward process. Here’s what to expect.
01
Initial Consultation
Bring your existing partial denture in. If you've had a tooth extracted recently, bring it as soon as possible after the procedure.
02
Assessment
We assess whether your existing denture is suitable for modification and confirm the addition is clinically appropriate for the new gap.
03
Shade matching & fabrication
We match the new prosthetic tooth to your existing teeth and modify the denture base to cover the extraction site naturally.
04
Delivery & Aftercare
The modified denture is returned and fitted in your mouth, checked for comfort and bite, and adjusted as needed.
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
When is a tooth addition right for you?
A tooth addition is a practical, affordable solution for patients in the right circumstances.
Patients who've lost one more tooth
If you wear an acrylic partial and have recently lost another tooth, an addition is often the quickest and most cost-effective next step.
Patients with a well-fitting existing denture
Whether planned or following illness, we can fit immediate dentures so you're never without a smile.
Patients seeking an affordable solution
Complete dentures are one of the most cost-effective ways to replace a full arch of teeth.
Long-term denture wearers needing a replacement
Post-extraction aesthetics matter. A same-day or next-day tooth addition means you're not walking around with a visible gap for long.
Patients planning a new denture later
An addition can serve as a practical interim solution while you save for a new partial or plan a more permanent treatment.
Post-surgical patients
Patients recovering from extractions who can't yet have a full new denture made can benefit from a temporary tooth addition to their existing appliance.
Not sure if this is right for you?
Metal (chrome cobalt) framework partials can sometimes be modified with a tooth addition, but this depends on the location of the gap and the framework design. Bring your denture in and we'll assess it honestly.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know when considering adding a tooth to an existing partial denture. Can’t find your answer? Give us a call.
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Tooth additions work best on acrylic partial dentures. Metal (chrome cobalt) framework partials can sometimes be modified, but it depends on the position of the gap and the framework design — bring your denture in for an assessment. Flexible Valplast partials generally cannot have teeth added and typically require a new denture.
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In most cases, a tooth addition can be completed the same day or the next day. For more complex cases, it may take a couple of days. We'll confirm the timeline at your appointment.
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We carefully match the new prosthetic tooth to your existing denture teeth in shade, shape and size. In most cases, the addition is virtually undetectable. The match may not be perfect if your existing teeth are very worn or discoloured, but we'll discuss this with you beforehand.
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If your current partial fits well and is otherwise in good condition, a tooth addition is usually the more sensible and economical choice. If your existing denture is old, ill-fitting, or has had multiple additions already, a new denture may provide a better long-term result. We'll give you an honest recommendation.
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We can plan to have the addition done prior to your extraction and have the denture ready on the same day as your extraction. Otherwise, ideally 2 weeks after your extraction after the gum tissue heals. The earlier we modify the denture, the better the initial fit over the extraction site. The fit may need a minor reline adjustment as the gum heals over the following weeks.
What Patients are Saying
Lost a tooth? Don’t wait.
Bring your existing partial denture to our Mount Wellington clinic — we'll assess whether a tooth addition is right for you and have it done as quickly as possible.