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Partial Denture Guide

Partial Dentures for Back Teeth: Options for Missing Molars

Missing a molar or two makes chewing harder and lets nearby teeth drift. Here are your removable options for back teeth.

By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026 · Part of our complete partial dentures guide

Why Replace Missing Back Teeth?

Back teeth (molars and premolars) do most of your chewing. When one is missing, you may chew only on one side, and neighboring or opposing teeth can gradually drift or tip into the space. A partial denture fills the gap to support chewing and help keep teeth in position.

Partial dentures for back teeth: custom flexible partial denture made in the FixUrSmile US dental lab

Best Partial Denture Options for Back Teeth

OptionBest forFixUrSmile price
Nesbit partial1 tooth or 2 adjacent back teeth on one side$260
Flexible partialBack teeth on one or both sides, no metal$315 (1–3 teeth), $399 (up to 6)
Acrylic partialSeveral back teeth, lowest cost, easy to adjust$245 (1–3 teeth), $295 (4–6)

Nesbit Partials for a Single Molar

A Nesbit is a small, one-sided partial that clips onto the teeth next to the gap. Because it doesn’t cross to the other side of your mouth, many people find it less bulky than a full partial. FixUrSmile’s Nesbit is metal-free and replaces 1 tooth or 2 adjacent teeth for $260. Note that small appliances are easier to misplace, so keep it in its case when it’s out.

Missing Back Teeth on Both Sides

If you’re missing back teeth on both the left and right, a partial that spans the arch connects both sides for better stability. Flexible and acrylic partials both work well; compare them in our partial denture comparison.

Chewing Tips With a Back-Tooth Partial

  • Start with soft foods and small bites for the first week.
  • Chew evenly on both sides once you’re comfortable.
  • Avoid very hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candy, which can crack or dislodge a partial.
  • If it rocks when you chew, have the fit checked. Our Custom Fit Guarantee includes a free adjustment within 30 days.

Cost Compared With Other Options

At a dental office, partial dentures typically cost about $300 to $2,500, according to Guardian Life. Implants and bridges usually cost considerably more and involve surgery or reshaping of nearby teeth. See our partial dentures cost guide and the full partial dentures guide.

How to Order

  1. Order online and we mail an impression kit to your home.
  2. Take your impressions using our step-by-step impression guide.
  3. Mail them back free. A licensed dentist reviews your case, usually within 24–48 hours.
  4. Our US dental lab builds your custom appliance and ships it to you.

Partial Dentures for Back Teeth: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a partial denture for one back tooth?

Yes. A Nesbit partial or a small flexible partial can replace a single missing molar.

Is a Nesbit partial safe?

Nesbit partials are small, so they can be easier to lose or swallow if they come loose. Make sure it fits snugly, remove it when sleeping unless your dentist advises otherwise, and have the fit checked if it feels loose.

Are partial dentures for back teeth noticeable?

Back-tooth partials are rarely visible when you smile, especially metal-free flexible or Nesbit designs.

How much is a partial denture for back teeth?

FixUrSmile partials for back teeth start at $245 (acrylic, 1–3 teeth); Nesbit partials are $260.

This guide is for general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist. If you have pain, swelling, loose teeth, or other oral health concerns, please see a dental professional.

Get a Nesbit Partial for Back Teeth

Metal-free, 1 or 2 adjacent teeth, $260. Made in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home, with licensed dentist approval and our Custom Fit Guarantee.

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