What is the difference between upper and lower dentures?

The main difference between upper and lower dentures is, obviously, where they're placed. If a person is missing all of their teeth in both jaws, both upper and lower dentures will be required. However, if a person is missing teeth only on their upper jaw or only on their lower jaw, they may only require one or the other set of dentures. Each denture is custom-made to fit a person's gums and bones, so just as people's upper and lower natural teeth look different, their upper and lower dentures will also look different.

The most basic difference is their location. The upper denture replaces the upper teeth and the lower denture replaces lower teeth. Most people find that upper dentures are easier to get used to and are better fitting.

An upper denture is able to get good suction by adhering to the palate in the upper jaw. In the lower jaw there is no palate because the tongue is in the way! This makes lower dentures less adherent and more difficult to get accustomed to. Your dentist will always try his best to save some lower teeth so that there is something to attach a partial denture onto for stability. Complete lower dentures should be avoided.