What is an Overdenture?

One of the most common complaints we heard from denture wearers is that their dentures don’t easily stay in place. We’ve all seen the videos of grandma losing her teeth in her glass of water. And while that makes for fun entertainment, it’s actually incredibly embarrassing to the person experiencing it. When a person’s dentures slip it impacts how they speak, eat, and how they view themselves.

Overdentures are a great solution designed to eliminate this embarrassing slippage.

What are implant retained dentures?

These are overdentures that are kept in place by attaching to dental implants. These are often selected by people who have enough bone to support dental implants, but are missing a large amount of teeth and can’t undergo a full mouth restoration.

Once implants are secured into a person’s jawbone, the dentures are then attached to the implant. The can easily be removed, yet remain firmly in place while talking, chewing, and eating.

How do I care for implant retained dentures?

Overdentures must be removed and cleaned on a daily basis. This daily cleaning removes bacteria that causes bad breath, infection, and plaque build up. Although individuals with overdentures do not have real teeth, it is important that the tissues in their mouth be kept free from infection and this can cause the overdenture to loosen, bone loss, and chronic infection.

What are the types of implant retained dentures?

There are a couple of options available to patients interested in overdentures. Bar retained dentures hold up to five implants in place. The attachments are fitted to the denture, which is then clipped into the bar.

 

Stud-attachment dentures require each denture to fit a female part into a male ball shaped part.

 

What is it like to get implants?

Getting dental implants can take several months due to the healing requires throughout the procedure. Although it can be time consuming, the relief offered to patients is worth the time and effort. Patients can say goodbye to glues that poorly adhere dentures and requires lots of cleaning, and welcome a more carefree, low maintenance life.

Prior to being fitted with an overdenture, the dentist will perform a complete examination of your mouth. We might also take x-rays as well as impressions so we have a clear idea of what we are dealing with in terms of your mouth’s anatomy. Each of these components will help us map out your treatment and provide you with the best care possible.

 

If you’re interested in learning more about how an overdenture could improve your quality of life and decrease your frustrations with your dentures, contact us. We would be happy to schedule a consultation and discuss the options that might work best for your needs and lifestyle.