Implants · single question
The minimum number of implants recommended to support a maxillary implant-supported overdenture is:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. 4 implants
For the maxillary arch, a minimum of 4 implants is recommended to support an implant-supported overdenture (IOS). The maxilla has less cortical bone density than the mandible, has greater resorptive forces, and the palatal coverage required for stability means more implants are needed. In contrast, the mandible can be supported by just 2 implants (the McGill Consensus recommendation for mandibular overdentures).
- A. ❌ 3 implants is below the consensus minimum for maxillary overdentures.
- B. ❌ While 6 implants provides greater support, 4 is the minimum consensus recommendation.
- C. ✅ CORRECT – A minimum of 4 implants is recommended for a maxillary implant-supported overdenture.
- D. ❌ 2 implants is the minimum for mandibular overdentures — not maxillary.