What is an Implant Overdenture?


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A dental implant overdenture combines denture technology with the security and stability of dental implants. This is a cheaper procedure than having new crown teeth fitted, particularly if you are already a denture wearer and are looking for more a more secure tooth replacement. Implants can prevent the slipping and movement associated with removable dentures.

A full removable denture is still required, but it is quite common that a dentist will be able to just attach the bar and implants to your existing denture if you are already wearing one. The denture can be attached in one of two ways. Option one called a “maxillary bar overdenture” in the upper jaw and “mandible bar overdenture” in the lower jaw. In this case the denture is connected to a gold metal bar, which is then connected to dental implants in your jaw. Option two is that there are a series of small separate attachment devices that each screw into an individual implant. Both attachments are “self-locating”, which means it should be easy for you to re-insert the denture yourself after you have taken it out at night or to clean.


A full denture will need the support of between two and six implants, with an upper denture requiring more usually because the bone is softer. Because of the great pressure dentures endure it is really important they have the support they need – too few implants supporting too many teeth can cause a lot of problems.

The metal bar snaps and locks the denture into place. Using dental implants and a connector bar means that the denture is almost as secure as natural teeth. You also have the other benefits of wearing a denture such as their coverage: they can hide lost and receding gum and bone as well as providing you with bright, even teeth. This can improve the whole appearance of your face for a lower cost than implant bridges or crowns.

What is a mini implant overdenture?

Like with a standard overdenture, mini implant overdentures consist of a denture plate with false teeth attached that can be placed in, and removed from either the upper or lower jaw. Mini dental implants may be preferable because they are cheaper than standard dentures and easier to insert, but some dentists may consider these just a temporary measure. They do however allow people who may not want, or may not be able to afford a full implant to have a secure denture fitted.

They are often a good option for people with low volume or density of bone available for implanting into.

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