Implant Overdentures

The stability of implants combined with the coverage of a full denture — a life-changing upgrade for denture wearers.

An implant overdenture is a removable full denture anchored securely to two or more dental implants. Unlike conventional dentures that rely on suction or adhesive, an overdenture snaps firmly into place — restoring confident eating, speaking, and smiling. At Macleod Dental, Dr. Pleunik has decades of specialist experience in implant overdenture design and fitting.

Did you know?

Cool Number
0

Implants can be enough to anchor a full lower overdenture securely

Cool Number
0 %

Of implant overdenture patients report dramatically improved quality of life

What Exactly Is an Implant Overdenture?

A conventional denture sits on the gum and relies on suction or adhesive — it can rock, slip, and make eating difficult. An implant overdenture uses two to four titanium implants placed in the jaw as anchor points. The denture clips firmly onto these implants, eliminating movement entirely while still being removable for cleaning. It is the most significant upgrade available to denture wearers.

Implant Overdenture

The Implant Anchors

Two to four titanium implants are placed in the jawbone and fuse with the bone over time, creating permanent, rock-solid anchor points.

The Snap-On Connection

Precision attachments on the underside of the denture clip onto the implants, locking it firmly in place. No rocking, no slipping, no adhesive needed.

Removable for Cleaning

Unlike fixed implant bridges, the overdenture unclips for easy nightly cleaning — stability during the day, simplicity at night.

Is an Overdenture Right for You?

You might be a good candidate if you...

Currently wear a full denture that moves or slips

If your denture shifts when you eat or speak, implant retention will transform your daily experience.

Have been missing all teeth for some time

Long-term denture wearers often have bone loss that makes a fixed bridge difficult — overdentures are frequently the ideal solution.

Struggle to eat certain foods you love

An implant-supported denture restores significantly more biting force, opening up your diet again.

Want implant stability without the cost of a full fixed bridge

Overdentures need only 2–4 implants rather than 6+ for a fixed arch, making them significantly more accessible.

Adequate bone volume is needed to place the implants. We assess this thoroughly at your consultation and discuss all options honestly.

Why upgrade from a conventional denture?

Eliminates denture movement — no more rocking, lifting, or clicking

Dramatically improves biting force and chewing ability

Stimulates the jawbone, slowing bone loss that conventional dentures accelerate

No denture adhesives — ever

Speak with confidence — no worrying about dentures slipping mid-sentence

Still removable for easy overnight cleaning

Most patients describe their implant overdenture as life-changing — one of the most impactful treatments we provide.

Your Implant Overdenture Journey — Step by Step

Treatment typically spans a few months to allow implants to integrate fully. Here’s exactly what to expect at each stage.

Step 01

Consultation & Assessment

X-rays and 3D scans assess your bone volume. We discuss your existing denture, your goals, and map out the full treatment plan.

Step 02

Implant Placement

Under local anaesthetic, two to four titanium implants are carefully positioned in the jaw. Most patients are comfortable throughout.

Step 03

Healing & Integration

Over 2–4 months the implants fuse with the jawbone. You can usually continue wearing your existing denture during this healing phase.

Step 04

Attachment Fitting

Precision snap-in attachments are fitted to your implants. Your existing denture is modified or a new one fabricated to connect to them perfectly.

Step 05

Review & Long-term Care

We check fit, bite, and comfort at follow-up. The snap-in attachments are easy to replace at routine check-ups as they wear over time.

Implant Overdentures vs Your Other Options

The right choice depends on your bone volume, budget, and how many teeth need replacing. Here is an honest comparison.

FeatureImplant OverdentureConventional DentureFixed Implant Bridge
No movement or slipping✓ Yes✗ No✓ Yes
Preserves jawbone✓ Yes✗ No✓ Yes
Removable for cleaning✓ Yes✓ Yes✗ No
Fewer implants required✓ Yes (2–4)None needed✗ No (4–6+)
Relative costModerateLowestHighest

We will walk you through all options honestly at your consultation so you can make the best decision for your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an overdenture and a regular denture?

A conventional denture sits on the gum and can rock and slide — especially the lower denture, which has very little surface area to grip. An implant overdenture clips onto titanium implants anchored in the jawbone, making it completely stable. The difference in confidence, comfort, and function is dramatic for most patients.

For most patients, two implants in the lower jaw are sufficient to anchor a full overdenture securely. The upper jaw typically benefits from four implants due to different bone density. We assess your specific bone volume and advise the optimal number at your consultation.

This is a common concern and one of the most rewarding outcomes. Implants stimulate the jawbone in a way that conventional dentures cannot, slowing ongoing bone loss significantly. In some cases bone grafting can restore lost volume prior to implant placement. We assess feasibility carefully and discuss all options honestly.

Implant placement is performed under local anaesthetic, so you will feel no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and well managed with over-the-counter pain relief. The attachment fitting appointment that follows is completely pain-free.

The denture is removed and cleaned nightly just like a conventional denture. The implant sites in the mouth are cleaned with a soft brush. The small nylon snap-in inserts inside the denture wear over time but are easily and inexpensively replaced at your routine check-up appointments.

Many private health fund extras policies include a benefit for implants and prosthetic work under major dental. Cover varies significantly between funds and policy levels. We provide a full written treatment estimate before you proceed so you can check your entitlements with your insurer.

Related Services

Dental Implants

Single-tooth implants for permanent, fixed replacement of individual missing teeth.

Dentures

Custom full and partial dentures crafted for comfort, function, and a natural appearance.

Full Mouth Reconstruction

Comprehensive rehabilitation combining implants, crowns, and other restorations.

Checkups & Cleans

Regular maintenance keeps your implants, overdenture, and gum tissue in excellent long-term health.

Ready to stop worrying about your denture?

Eat, Speak and Smile With Complete Confidence.

Book a consultation at Macleod Dental and we’ll assess whether an implant overdenture is the right solution for you — with honest advice, clear pricing, and no pressure.