Denture retention is often a real challenge however there are several ways that this can be improved with:

• Correct design and manufacture of the denture especially regarding the extensions of the denture peripheries. Over-extended peripheries lead to de-stabilising the denture when the soft tissues of the mouth move, thus allowing air under and reduced retention. Under-extension again allows air under the denture due to the reduced peripheral seal and thus reduced retention. A difficult balance is required and comes mainly from experience and enthusiasm.

• Over dentures (standard) can be constructed over the top of retained teeth/ roots. These teeth are specially modified to provide added support and retention for the denture, often using clips, ball attachments.
• Over dentures (implant retained) work in a very similar way with the denture constructed over the top of a retaining / supportive implant abutment which is fitted into the implant fixture (in the bone). Various fittings can be used including ball attachments and bars with clips to attach the denture depending on the merits of each case.