Overdentures are removable dental prostheses that fit over a patient’s remaining healthy teeth or dental implants. These appliances can remain in place with dental implants, the patient's remaining teeth or tooth roots, or a combination. Due to the way overdentures attach to the surrounding teeth and jaw, they can offer greater stability than traditional dentures, among other benefits.
Teeth replacement solutions are available at Sonoran Desert Dentistry in Scottsdale and the surrounding area. If you are considering overdentures and want to learn more, call (480) 439-0117 to schedule a consultation.
As with traditional dentures, overdentures replace entire arches of teeth. They are both removed for oral hygiene and during sleep. The difference lies in how they are attached. Traditional dentures are held in place by the suction between the denture base and underlying gums. Traditional overdentures use some of the patient’s remaining healthy teeth as natural abutments. Instead of natural teeth, implant-supported overdentures rest on strategically placed dental implants.
The dentist may recommend various overdentures based on the patient's needs. Attachment options can include bars, stud precision attachments, and magnetic attachments. In many cases, the number of implants used may also vary. Each variation has advantages to consider when deciding on the most appropriate fit for the patient.
"The dentist may recommend various overdentures based on the patient's needs."
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Overdentures are a hybrid between fixed solutions involving dental implants and traditional removable dentures. Because of this, they offer a mixture of advantages of each, including the following:
Also, with implant overdentures, patients experience less bone loss than with conventional complete dentures, along with less atrophy of the muscles surrounding the mouth.
"Overdentures are a hybrid between fixed solutions involving dental implants and traditional removable dentures."
The ideal candidate is a nonsmoker in good physical and oral health who needs a full set of teeth replaced. First, a patient considering this option must be healthy enough for dental implant surgery or have healthy remaining teeth to act as natural abutments. Next, jawbone strength is another important factor, especially if dental implants are required.
However, if a patient lacks the required jawbone support, they may be able to undergo bone grafting to improve their candidacy. Finally, patients must be committed to continued oral hygiene and regular dental appointments to maintain the appliance and their oral health.
"A patient considering this option must be healthy enough for dental implant surgery if required or have healthy remaining teeth to act as natural abutments."
Several factors affect the length and number of appointments in the treatment process. The biggest factor is whether or not dental implants are involved or if the patient will need dental bone grafting first. Purely tooth-supported overdentures involve shorter treatment times, which may take several weeks or months.
Treatment typically starts with assessment and treatment planning, followed by another appointment to prepare the remaining teeth and create an impression to send to the lab that makes the overdenture. The fabrication process can take a few weeks, followed by the fitting appointment. If adjustments are needed, a few more appointments may be necessary before the final placement. Dental implants may add three to six months to this process to allow time for healing and osseointegration, the process of the titanium dental implant integrating with the jawbone.
"Purely tooth-supported overdentures involve shorter treatment times, which may take several weeks or months."
Following the dentist’s aftercare instructions for each stage is important for a successful procedure. Equally as important is taking proper care of the new overdentures. The following steps will help a patient keep their overdenture in good condition.
Finally, it is not recommended to use the same toothbrush to clean one’s gums and one’s dentures. Doing so can cause cross-contamination and hygiene concerns.
"Equally as important is taking proper care of the new overdentures."
Finding the tooth replacement solution that is right for you is important. You owe it to yourself to consider all your options. To learn more about overdentures, call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 to set up an appointment.
How long do overdentures last?
The longevity of the appliance relies heavily on the patient. Following proper care instructions and attending regular dental appointments can extend the life of dentures for many years and even decades. Dental implants may last a lifetime if proper care is taken.
Are overdentures comfortable?
A chief advantage of overdentures is that they attach to dental implants or teeth. This makes for an easier adjustment period because the patient does not have to fear they will slip or fall out. Though they may feel strange at first, most patients adjust to them in a shorter amount of time than with traditional dentures. Some patients report adjusting to them in a matter of days.
Why do I still need to see a dentist after getting overdentures?
If you still have some natural teeth supporting the dentures, the dentist must monitor those for tooth decay and other problems. Additionally, the dentist must ensure your gums are in good condition and free of any inflammation or infection that can lead to implant loss. Checking jaw bone health and the fit of the overdenture are also important.
How much do overdentures cost?
Cost depends on several factors, including the number of dental implants required, the type of overdenture, and how much preparatory work, such as bone grafting, is required. We recommend patients check with their dental insurance about possible coverage since that can also change per person.
How many dental implants are needed to support overdentures?
That depends on the patient, scenario, and type of attachment. Some styles require only two dental implants to support an arch. However, there are cases where four or more strategically placed implants are necessary. The dentist works with each patient on an individual basis to design a customized treatment plan to suit their needs.