Abstract: A denture is fitted with a U-shaped magnet element which provides for enhanced denture retention by coupling magnetically with a magnetizable element which is located in a decoronated tooth or dental implant in the mouth of a person to whom the denture is fitted. The magnet element is substantially totally enclosed within a base of the denture but pole caps are mounted to respective pole faces of the magnet element and are exposed to engage in abutting contact with the magnetizable element. The pole caps are formed from ferro-magnetic stainless steel and function to protect the magnet element from chemical attack and/or mechanical damage in the oral environment.

Abstract: A method of retaining dentures in position by use of magnets. A first magnet element is mounted to a support associated with a person's jawbone, such magnet element being exposed at or above the gingival margin of the person's gum, and a second magnet element is located in the denture. The second magnet element aligns with and abuts the first magnet element when the denture is fitted to the patient. Retention is achieved by way of magnetic attraction between the first and second magnet elements, one at least of which is a magnet that exhibits a magnetic field.