December 5, 2024

Medically Reviewed By: Jennette M. Bick, DDS, MS
Implant-supported dentures are a desirable option when it comes to full-mouth restoration due to their exceptional function and stability. Unlike traditional dentures that often require adhesives and may slip or fall out of the mouth, implant-supported dentures remain securely in place even when eating tough or sticky foods. But how many dental implants are needed to achieve this type of result?
Creating a Strong Foundation for Replacement Teeth
Several factors come into play when your periodontist determines how many dental implants you will need for implant-supported dentures. Every patient is different. Your provider will consider things such as:
- Jawbone Health
The longer teeth are missing, the greater the risk of bone loss. Without a tooth root to stimulate the jaw, the bone slowly begins to resorb. The result is lower bone density and volume. Because dental implants are inserted directly into the jaw, it is important that you have enough healthy bone tissue to support them. In some cases, a bone graft may be recommended to rebuild lost volume before the implant procedure.
In addition, the upper mandible is naturally less dense than the lower mandible. Therefore, you may need more dental implants to support an upper-arch denture than you do for a lower-arch prosthetic.
- Treatment Technique
Another factor to consider is how the procedure is performed. Your provider will carefully assess the bone quality and density throughout your entire jaw when deciding how many implants are needed and where to place them. Periodontists with more experience or advanced training can strategically place fewer implants while still achieving the same level of support and stability. In other cases, that is not an option. It depends on the approach they take, how the implants are positioned, and the health of your jaw.
- Implant Type
There are also a few different types of implants that providers can choose from, which can affect the number of implants needed for implant-supported dentures. Titanium and zirconia are the most common materials used, as they are biocompatible and naturally fuse with the jawbone with a low risk of rejection. While several providers use these implants, they are not approved for osseointegration and are specifically designed for temporary use. As a result, they almost always fail when used as permanent solutions. We only place them in cases where temporary support is needed, ensuring they are removed within a few months.
Supporting Teeth Replacement with Implant-Supported Dentures
Your provider will take all of these factors into consideration when developing a treatment plan for implant-supported dentures and determining how many dental implants are needed for each arch. At Advanced Implant & Periodontal Specialists, our periodontist team will tailor treatment to each patient’s unique needs and goals. Learn more about the process for receiving implant-supported dentures to revitalize your smile.