Implant-supported dentures, for a more stable fit
An implant-supported denture attaches to dental implants in the jawbone, rather than resting on the gums like a conventional denture.
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What is an implant denture?
An implant denture is a denture that clips onto, or is fixed to, dental implants in your jaw. It moves much less than a regular denture, which many people find makes eating and speaking easier.
Bar-retained
A thin metal bar joins the implants and the denture clips onto it.
Ball-retained (stud)
Each implant has an attachment that fits into the denture.
Fixed
Screwed to the implants and only removed by your dentist.
Implant dentures in pictures
Press play or use the arrows. Captions are on (CC).
How an implant denture works. How a small number of implants give a denture something secure to attach to.
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Step by step Implant-supported dentures: how it works
Step 1 When no teeth remain, a conventional denture can move when you eat or speak.
Show transcriptHide transcript (4 steps)
- When no teeth remain, a conventional denture can move when you eat or speak.
- Implants are placed in the jawbone, usually two or more.
- The implants heal and bond with the bone over several months.
- The denture clips onto the implants, which helps hold it in place.
Treatment facts
Plain-language answers to common questions. General information only: your dentist will explain your own options, risks and costs after examining you.
Is it right for me?
It may suit you if
- your denture is loose or rubs
- you are missing most or all of your teeth in one jaw
- you would like a more secure denture for eating and speaking
- your general health allows a minor procedure in the chair
Things that can affect healing
- smoking or vaping
- diabetes that isn’t well controlled
- osteoporosis, and some bone medicines (such as bisphosphonates)
- past radiation treatment to the head or neck
- not enough jawbone, which may need a graft
What happens
Consultation and 3D scan
We check your mouth, health and bone with X-rays and a 3D scan, and talk through the types.
Planning
The number and position of implants is planned, often 2 to 6 per jaw.
Placing the implants
Done with local anaesthetic. Your existing denture may be adjusted to wear while you heal.
Healing
The bone bonds to the implants.
often 3–6 monthsFitting the denture
The new or adapted denture is connected and adjusted for comfort and bite.
Check-ups
Regular reviews. Clips and parts wear and need replacing from time to time.
Times are typical ranges only. Your dentist will give you your own plan.
Recovery and aftercare
The first few days
- Some swelling, bruising and tenderness are common for a few days.
- Eat soft food and follow the cleaning advice you are given.
- Try not to smoke, as it slows healing.
Looking after it long term
- Clean the denture and around the implants every day.
- Take removable dentures out at night if advised.
- Keep up regular check-ups so clips and parts can be checked.
When to call us: ring (08) 9330 7115 if you have heavy bleeding, pain or swelling that is getting worse, or a fever. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, call 000.
Risks to know about
Every treatment has some risks. Your dentist will talk you through the ones that apply to you.
- Infection, bleeding or swelling after surgery.
- Nerve injury: numbness or tingling of the lip, chin or tongue. It can be short term, or in rare cases permanent.
- An implant not bonding with the bone, which may need it to be removed and replaced later.
- Peri-implantitis: gum and bone inflammation around the implants.
- Wear and repairs: clips, bars and teeth wear and need maintenance.
Ways risk is lowered: a full health check, a 3D scan and careful planning, good cleaning and regular reviews.
Other options
Regular denture
No surgery and costs less, but may move more.
Relining your denture
Can improve the fit of a loose denture.
Fixed implant bridge
A full arch fixed onto implants that only the dentist removes.
Cost and paying
What affects the cost
- the number of implants
- bone grafting if needed
- 3D scans and planning
- the type of denture and attachments
- the number of visits
We can’t give an exact price before we examine you. You’ll get a written, itemised plan and estimate before any treatment starts. Health fund rebates depend on your fund and level of cover.
Paying for implant dentures
- Estimate first. For planned treatment you get a written estimate with item numbers before you start.
- Claim on the day. Bring your health fund card. We claim on the spot with Tyro, so you pay only the gap.
- Check your cover. Use the health fund checker to see which item numbers to ask your fund about.
- Ways to pay. EFTPOS and card, including tap and pay. Payment plans are available through Tyro and are tailored to each patient. Ask us about eligibility, terms and any fees before you start. Fees and payments
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Suitability, treatment time and results vary from person to person.
Common questions
How many implants are needed?
Often between two and six per jaw, depending on the type of denture and your bone. Your dentist will plan this with 3D imaging.
Can I take it out?
Some types clip on and off for cleaning; others are fixed and only removed by your dentist.
Is everyone suitable?
Not everyone. General health, smoking and the amount of bone all matter. An assessment with a CBCT scan helps work this out.
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Information adapted from our main website, myareedental.com. General information only; it isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist. Fees are confirmed in a written treatment plan after your examination.
Your next step
Request an appointment online, call or text our team.