Dentures are removable dental appliances that serve as a replacement for missing teeth. They are usually worn over the gums and constructed to fit snugly against the roof of the mouth. There are complete dentures and partial dentures, but the type that children typically require are partial dentures.

Dentures for Kids: Why Would My Child Need Dentures?

Although dentures are often associated with the elderly population, dentures for kids are much less common than adult dentures because a child’s mouth is still developing—but children can still need custom-made appliances at a young age. Oftentimes, older adults require dentures due to years of periodontal disease, where their teeth have deteriorated due to years of infection and inflammation, eventually leading to bone loss. For parents and caregivers, pediatric dentures are usually partial dentures used to replace missing baby or permanent teeth after injury, decay, or genetic conditions so a child can keep chewing, speaking clearly, and maintaining proper tooth alignment as they grow.

Unlike adult dentures, which are made for fully developed mouths, dentures for children are often needed after sudden trauma to the front teeth or because of conditions a child is born with. With trauma, minor issues can usually be resolved with a root canal or other reinforcing measures to save the tooth. Tooth extraction is always the last option, but in some cases, it may be the best course of action. This guide explains why children may need dentures, the types of pediatric dentures available, how partial dentures are made and fitted, how to care for them, and when to see a pediatric dentist.

If a child loses their permanent teeth at a young age or is born with missing teeth, they are not eligible for a dental implant until they are at least 18 years old. The minimum age for a dental implant is 18 since the growth of your jaw usually does not complete until your early 20s. If an implant is performed before skeletal maturity is reached, the implant may interfere with bone development and cause further health complications.

How are Partial Dentures Made for Missing Teeth?

Pediatric dentures are created by starting with detailed bite impressions of your child’s teeth and gums and taking measurements of your child’s jaw. Based on the impression, a mold is crafted, which the oral specialist can then use to construct a custom made pediatric partial denture designed to fit a growing child’s mouth. Dentures often need to be tested out several times before finding an accurate fit, shape, and color. In some cases, new dentures can be made in just one day.

Since kids typically require partials rather than full dentures, these appliances replace missing baby teeth while preserving proper spacing for developing permanent teeth, one of the benefits of pediatric treatment that supports healthy smiles and protects a child’s smile. This structure is composed of the replacement tooth or teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base. Pediatric partials support chewing and speech and help prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of proper alignment, offering functional benefits and added support for the child’s comfort. Common types of removable partial dentures include:

• Cast metal partial dentures
• Acrylic flippers
• Flexible dentures

Some appliances use acrylic material with metal parts for strength while staying lightweight, and they may need adjustments as jaw growth and natural growth continue.

A pediatric dentist may recommend a pediatric partial denture or a groper appliance, a dental appliance made for a growing child’s mouth, and some clinics offer pediatric partials as space maintainers. Unlike adult partials, pedi partials are made for a developing child’s mouth, not a fully developed one.

Cost varies based on the appliance type and any follow-up adjustments.

In some cases, you may use a dental adhesive to enhance the stability and bite force of the denture. Dental adhesives come as a paste application or powder application. Remind your child to start with a small amount of adhesive, as too much can be uncomfortable. With powder adhesives, children should shake off any excess product before placing the denture into their mouth. Regular check-ups help ensure pediatric partials continue to fit properly as the child grows and allow the dentist to watch for issues like tooth decay that can affect fit and oral health.

How to Care for a Pediatric Partial Denture

For your child to maintain good oral health, make sure they get proper dental care and follow proper care steps that help protect pediatric dentures and support long term oral health. Remind them to consistently:

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating
• Handle dentures carefully and avoid dropping them, since they can break
• Brush teeth after removal of dentures
• Avoid exposure to hot liquids
• Visit the dentist twice a year for routine check-ups to inspect denture condition and fit
• Store dentures in water when not in use
• Clean the appliance with a denture cleaner, brushing the dentures at least twice daily with a soft-bristled denture brush

Contact Abra Dental

If your child has any missing teeth or has recently experienced premature tooth loss from injury or decay, contact Abra Dental today so a pediatric dentist can evaluate whether they may benefit from pediatric partials or pediatric dentures to help restore chewing, speech, and a confident smile while supporting healthy development.