Implants inside overdentures are placed in either of the arches. Abutment posts are then placed onto the implants and protrude on top of the gum tissues. The complete or partial denture is then snapped onto the implants via “attachments” inside the denture base. The dental implants are not visible while the denture is in place.
An overdenture is another version of a complete or partial denture that combines traditional denture technology with modern advancements in dental implants. Our dentist may recommend overdentures if you struggle with your dentures having a loose or uncomfortable fit. Overdentures are supported by implants to provide you with a secure fit. We encourage you to call us today at 610-524-0115 to schedule your consultations with Dr. Andrew Hoffman and discover more about overdentures in Exton, Pennsylvania.
Advantages of Overdentures Versus Conventional Dentures:
- Improved confidence
- Increased comfort
- Increased stability during eating and speaking
- Increased preservation of bone
- Increased preservation of facial structural integrity
- Nutritional benefits
- Reduced tissue irritations
What If I Am Missing All of My Lower Teeth?
These types of dentures are particularly beneficial when a full denture is needed for the lower jaw where traditional full dentures tend to have less adhesion due to a limited foundation and the tongue dislodging the denture. In most cases, a denture that is retained and supported by implants will be able to sit securely in place to instantly provide increased retention, stability and comfort.
Ball Attachment Denture
One option is to have two implants placed in your lower jaw and a denture made that snaps onto these dental implants. This option allows your lower denture to be more stable while chewing than without implants. However, there will still be movement of your lower denture, and sore spots will occur if any food particles, especially seeds, are caught under it. As with all removable replacement teeth, you still will need periodic appointments for denture adjustment.
Bar Attachment Denture
Another option involves placing four to six implants, depending on your jaw size or shape, into your lower jaw. After healing is complete, the implants are connected with a custom-made support bar. Your denture will be made with special internal retention clips that attach onto the support bar, enabling the denture to snap firmly into place. This is called an overdenture. The advantage of this option is that it is much more stable than the first option and allows very little denture movement. Your denture is still removable for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Screw-Retained Denture
A third option involves placing five or more implants in your jaw and attaching a permanent denture. Your denture is held in place by screws or clasps that secure it to the support posts or bar. It does not touch the gum tissue, which allows you to clean under the denture without removing it. This denture will replace all your missing lower teeth and will not be removed except at maintenance visits. Although cleaning under your denture without removing it is more time consuming and requires more dexterity, many patients who want a permanent denture prefer this option.
What If I’m Missing All Of My Upper Teeth?
A similar range of treatment options is also available for your upper jaw. However, because the bone is not as hard as that in the lower jaw, people often need more implants to support their replacement teeth. Depending on the number of implants to be placed, it may be possible to eliminate the need for covering the roof of your mouth with a complete denture. This option allows you to fully taste your food and gives you a better sense of its temperature. Your denture will feel more natural. You will still have a removable denture, which makes cleaning the support bar and denture much easier.
Implant Benefits
- Improved confidence
- Stability during eating
- Bone and gum preservation
- Improved dental hygiene
- Superior aesthetics
- Nutritional benefits
Upper Overdenture
Depending upon the number of implants to be placed, it may be possible to eliminate the need for covering the roof of your mouth with a complete denture. This option allows you to fully taste your food and gives you a better sense of its temperature. Your denture will feel more natural. You will still have a removable denture, which makes cleaning the support bar and denture much easier.
Care & Maintenance
Even though dentures are not real teeth, you should care for them the same way you would for natural teeth. You should brush them to remove plaque and food particles. They should be removed every night and placed directly into room temperature water or a denture cleaning solution. Never place them into hot water so that they do not become warped.
Denture wearers must continue to practice good home care. It is important to brush any natural teeth, your gums, tongue and palate with a soft-bristled brush before inserting any dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque. Also, never attempt to adjust your dentures yourself. Please seek assistance from Dr. Hoffman if they feel sore or uncomfortable. Regular dental examinations are still important for a denture wearer in order to check the oral tissues for any changes or abnormalities.
Call 610-524-0115 today to meet with us and learn more about the care and maintenance of your dentures.
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