Placement of dentures over selected retained teeth has become a commonly used treatment in dentistry. The relationship between the overdenture and the areas of periodontal, endodontic, restorative, and prosthodontic diagnosis and treatment has been discussed. Within each area, aspects of treatment that are crucial to success of the overdenture have been identified. It is suggested that the two most important concerns are adequate diagnosis and maintenance. The combination of a properly diagnosed case and a motivated patient, along with extreme attention to detail during treatment, will enhance the prospect of success.