Key facts
- Implant fixtures at Lucid Dental: from ₩590,000 (≈US$421 at ₩1,400/US$); custom abutment from ₩100,000.
- Full-arch bridges, overdentures and conventional dentures are quoted after an exam and 3D scan.
- Cleveland Clinic: dentures typically last 7–10 years and need a reline every 1–2 years.
- Korea's NHIS typically covers dentures and up to two implants for enrolled patients aged 65+, with a copay.
- Implant overdentures snap onto two or more implants and are removed for cleaning.
When most or all teeth in an arch are missing, the choice usually comes down to three paths: a conventional removable denture, a denture that clips onto a few implants, or a fixed full-arch bridge on implants. Each has a very different cost curve over time. Here is how they compare for patients treated in Seoul.
What are the main options when you are missing most of your teeth?
There are three broad choices. They differ in how stable they feel, how much surgery they need, and how often they need upkeep.
| Conventional denture | Implant overdenture | Fixed full-arch on implants | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it stays in | Suction and gum contact | Snaps onto 2 or more implants | Screwed or cemented to several implants |
| Removable? | Yes | Yes, for cleaning | No, only the dentist removes it |
| Surgery needed | None (unless extractions) | Implant placement | More implants, sometimes grafting |
| Typical upkeep | Relines and eventual replacement | Attachment parts wear and get swapped | Regular cleaning visits, occasional repairs |
| Upfront cost | Lowest | Middle | Highest |
Our guide to implant vs bridge vs denture covers the same choice for one or a few missing teeth.
How much do full implants cost compared with dentures at Lucid?
Implant work at Lucid Dental Clinic is priced by component, so a full-arch quote is built from the number of implants your plan needs. Dentures are quoted after an exam because the design, material and any extractions vary so much.
- Implant fixture: from ₩590,000 (MegaGen AnyOne), ₩690,000 (Osstem BA) or ₩890,000 (Osstem SOI).
- Custom abutment: from ₩100,000 per implant.
- Zirconia crown on an implant: from ₩500,000.
- Bone graft: ₩300,000–450,000 where needed; sinus lifts from ₩500,000 (crestal) or ₩1,000,000 (window).
- Full-arch bridges, overdenture attachments and conventional dentures: quoted after an exam.
A single complete implant tooth comes to roughly ₩1,190,000–1,490,000 before grafting (≈US$850–1,064 at about ₩1,400 per US$; check today's rate). A full arch does not simply multiply that figure, because a fixed bridge spans several teeth on fewer implants. That is why we only give a full-arch figure after X-rays and a 3D scan. See the cost of full dental implants in Korea for foreigners for a deeper look at full-arch budgeting.
Why do dentures cost less upfront but more over time?
A conventional denture avoids surgery, but it sits on gums and bone that keep changing. Cleveland Clinic notes that dentures typically last seven to ten years and recommends a reline every one to two years to keep the fit comfortable.
It also explains that the jawbone gradually shrinks after tooth loss, which can make a denture looser over time and change facial support. Implants act more like tooth roots, which may help slow that shrinkage. So the real comparison is lifetime cost: relines, replacements and adhesive on one side, implant surgery and periodic maintenance on the other.
Is an implant overdenture a middle ground?
Often, yes. A lower denture that clips onto two implants is a common way to add stability without the cost of a fixed full arch.
Fewer implants mean lower surgical cost and often less grafting. The denture still comes out for cleaning, and the clips or locators inside it wear and need replacing from time to time. For many people, the main gain is that the denture no longer lifts when eating or talking. Whether two implants are enough depends on your bone and bite.
Does Korean national insurance help with implants or dentures?
Only for people enrolled in NHIS who meet the age rule. Korea typically covers dentures and up to two implants for enrolled patients aged 65 and over, with a copayment.
The Korea Times reported that implant coverage began in July 2014 for people aged 75 and over and was planned to step down to 65 by 2016. Rules and copay rates change, so confirm current terms with NHIS. Visitors on short trips are not covered. Expats can read what NHIS covers for foreigners.
How does a full-arch treatment plan come together?
- Send photos and any recent X-rays through WhatsApp for an early view.
- Attend an exam with a 3D CT scan to measure bone height and width.
- Review a written plan comparing denture, overdenture and fixed options, with reference fees.
- If implants are chosen, place them, often with a temporary denture while bone heals.
- Return for the final teeth once healing is confirmed, then keep up regular checks.
Implant cases usually need two trips several months apart; our All-on-4 implants guide and full mouth rehabilitation guide explain the timelines. Individual results vary; a consultation and exam are required.
For every listed fee in one place, see the Seoul dental price list for 2026, or read our dentures in Seoul page.
Book a consultation
Not sure whether dentures or implants suit your bone and budget? Send us a message through WhatsApp booking or write to WhatsApp +82-10-8354-2975 in English. Lucid Dental Clinic is on the 3rd and 4th floors of the COWAY Building, right in front of Exit 3 of Eonju Station on Subway Line 9 in Gangnam.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a temporary denture while my implants heal?
In many cases, yes. A temporary denture is often worn during healing so you are not without teeth. Whether it suits your case is decided at the exam.
Can my existing denture be converted to an implant overdenture?
Sometimes a well-fitting denture can be adapted to clip onto new implants. If it is old or loose, a new one is usually made.
Am I too old for implants?
There is no fixed upper age limit. General health, medications, bone and healing ability matter more than age, so bring a list of your medicines to the consultation.
Are full-arch implants harder to clean than dentures?
A fixed bridge cannot be taken out, so you clean under it with floss threaders or a water flosser. Regular professional cleaning visits help keep the implants healthy.
Can I travel home with only temporary teeth?
Yes, that is common in two-trip implant plans. We give written aftercare instructions and you should avoid hard foods until your final teeth are fitted.
Do implant overdentures need replacing?
The implants themselves can last many years with care, but the denture teeth and the clips inside wear with use and are replaced from time to time.
