How Many Implants are Needed for an Overdenture?

Mike asks:
I want a small u-shaped unit for Locator Abutments that does not cover the palate at all (for a maxillary overdenture). I have heard that 4 implants are not enough, if the palate is not to be covered partially. I have already gotten Keystone Lifecore Stage1 RDS implants. Angles are ok. I don't want ball attachments or milled bars. How many more implants would you suggest? Would 2 more be enough or do I need a total of 8?

Answered by: Dr. David Weinstein

New York, NY

Dear Mike,
This is a very good question. However, to properly answer this and make a decision, requires seeing the specific patient and reviewing the particular case. Each patient has unique needs and circumstances.

That said, in general, four implants of good length and thickness are sufficient to fabricate an overdenture. In fact, I have seen over dentures with Locator Attachment with two implants that have been perfect for the past 10 years. Clearly, eight implants would be excellent support for an over denture but may present restorative problems due to the number of implants.

Hope this helps.

Dr. David Weinstein