Implant Supported Dentures: A Complete Guide
If you wear dentures, you already know their limitations. They can slip when you're eating. Certain foods become tricky. You might avoid smiling widely in photos. And over time, as your jaw naturally changes shape, they can start to feel less secure.
Implant supported dentures fix all of that.
By clipping your denture onto a small number of dental implants, they stay firmly in place. No slipping. No adhesive. Eat what you like, smile when you want to, and forget about them for the rest of the day.
In this guide we'll walk you through what implant supported dentures are, how they work, who they're for, and what to expect if you're thinking about them.
What are implant supported dentures?
Implant supported dentures combine two treatments into one solution.
Dental implants are small titanium posts placed into your jawbone that act as artificial tooth roots. Dentures are the removable replacement teeth themselves.
Instead of resting on your gums like traditional dentures, implant supported dentures clip securely onto a small number of implants, usually between two and six per arch. That anchoring gives you the stability of implants with the coverage of dentures, at a lower cost than replacing every missing tooth with an individual implant.
For many patients, it's the sweet spot between traditional dentures, which are affordable but loose, and full mouth implants, which are expensive but the most permanent solution.
How they work
The process, in simple terms:
We place two to six dental implants into your jawbone.
Over the following few months, the implants integrate with the bone.
Once healed, we fit your custom denture with special attachments that clip onto the implants.
You put the denture in and take it out yourself, but when it's in, it stays firmly in place.
You still remove the denture for cleaning, but throughout the day it doesn't move, doesn't slip, and doesn't need adhesive.
The three main types
Implant retained dentures
These clip onto two implants, usually at the front of your mouth, and rest partly on your gums. They're removable, cost effective, and significantly more stable than traditional dentures. A great entry point for patients wanting more security without the full cost of a more comprehensive implant solution.
Implant supported dentures
Similar to implant retained, but with more implants, usually four to six per arch. The extra implants take more of the load, meaning the denture rests less on your gums and more on the implants themselves. More stable, more comfortable, and better for long term bone preservation.
Fixed implant bridges, like All on 4
The premium option. Your replacement teeth are fixed to four or more implants and stay in place permanently. You don't take them out. From your perspective, they function like natural teeth. You clean them like natural teeth, with some care around the implants. This is often called All on 4, All on 6, or a full arch fixed bridge.
Who they're for
Implant supported dentures are often the right answer for:
Patients who've worn traditional dentures for years and are tired of the slipping and discomfort
Patients facing tooth loss who want more security than traditional dentures offer
Patients who've been told they can't have individual implants for every tooth, usually due to cost or bone availability
Patients whose jaw has changed shape over time, making their existing dentures no longer fit well
They're not right for everyone. If your gums or jawbone aren't currently suitable for implants, or if traditional dentures are working well for you, they may not be necessary. We'll always tell you honestly.
The benefits over traditional dentures
Stability - no more slipping, no more adhesive.
Confidence when eating - enjoy foods that traditional dentures make difficult.
Better speech - no more worrying about your dentures moving when you talk.
Preserved jawbone - implants stimulate the jaw, slowing the natural bone loss that happens after tooth loss.
Longer lasting - implants can last decades, and the denture on top typically lasts longer than a traditional denture.
Natural feel - most patients say they feel more like natural teeth than traditional dentures.
The process at Claris Dental
Every implant supported denture treatment starts with a proper consultation.
Consultation. We examine your mouth, take digital scans, and assess your jawbone.
Treatment planning. We talk you through your options, timeline and a clear written quote, with no pressure to proceed.
Implant placement. The implants are placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic.
Healing. Over the following few months, the implants integrate with the bone.
Denture fitting. Your custom denture is fitted with the attachments that clip onto the implants.
Aftercare. Regular checkups and hygienist visits keep everything healthy for the long term.
The whole process typically takes 3 to 6 months, though this varies based on your specific case.
Cost considerations
Costs vary based on the type of treatment and how many implants are involved. Rough UK guides:
Implant retained dentures with 2 implants per arch: typically from £3,500 to £6,000 per arch
Implant supported dentures with 4 to 6 implants per arch: typically from £6,000 to £12,000 per arch
Fixed implant bridges, All on 4 style: typically from £12,000 to £20,000 per arch
These are guide prices. Your actual quote depends on your specific case, and we always provide a clear, itemised written quote at your consultation.
We also offer flexible dental finance to help spread the cost over manageable monthly payments.
Book a consultation at Claris Dental in Newmarket
Wondering if implant supported dentures might be right for you? Book a consultation at Claris Dental in Newmarket. Read more about our dental implants in Newmarket and private dentures, or call 01638 438505 to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between implant retained and implant supported dentures?
Implant retained dentures clip onto two implants and still rest partly on your gums. Implant supported dentures use four to six implants and rest primarily on the implants themselves, taking pressure off your gums. Both are removable. The choice usually comes down to budget, comfort preferences, and your specific case.
How much do implant supported dentures cost in Newmarket?
Costs depend on the number of implants and the type of denture. Implant retained dentures typically start from around £3,500 to £6,000 per arch. Implant supported dentures with more implants from around £6,000 to £12,000 per arch. Fixed implant bridges, All on 4 style, from around £12,000 to £20,000 per arch. We provide clear, itemised quotes at your consultation, along with flexible finance options.
Can I have implant supported dentures if I've been told I don't have enough bone?
Often, yes. Implant supported dentures typically need less bone than individual implants for every tooth. Even patients told they're not candidates for traditional implants can often benefit from an implant supported denture. Bone grafting can sometimes help too. A consultation and scans will tell us exactly what's possible.
Do I still take implant supported dentures out at night?
For implant retained and implant supported dentures, yes. You take them out for cleaning and, usually, for sleeping. For fixed implant bridges, no. They stay in place permanently.
Are implant supported dentures painful to have fitted?
The implant placement is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. Most patients report mild discomfort for a few days afterwards, easily managed with pain relief. The denture fitting itself is comfortable. Our full guide on dental implant aftercare covers what to expect during recovery.
How long do implant supported dentures last?
The implants themselves can last for decades, often a lifetime, with good care. The denture that clips onto them typically lasts 10 to 15 years before needing replacement. That's longer than a traditional denture because it doesn't take the same pressure or wear. Regular checkups and hygienist visits are key to making them last.
For more on how implant options compare with bridges and traditional dentures, read our guide to dental implants vs dentures vs bridges. If you're planning implant treatment, our dental implant aftercare guide walks through recovery and long term care.
Read about our dental implants in Newmarket, private dentures and the full range of treatments at Claris Dental.
