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Have you ever considered dental solutions that could restore your smile and confidence, allowing you to enjoy your favourite foods without worry?
If so, you’re not alone. Many people who have struggled with traditional dentures are turning to implant-supported overdentures as a game-changing solution to their dental solution.
What are Implant-Supported Overdentures?
Before diving into the specifics, let us establish a foundational understanding of what implant-supported overdentures are and how they differ from traditional dentures.
While traditional dentures rest on your gums and might require adhesives to stay in place, implant-supported ones are more stable and secure.
They are a type of dental prosthesis that are anchored by dental implants, which are surgically placed into your jawbone.
These implants serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for your dentures to attach to.
This is a significant departure from traditional dentures, which rely solely on suction and adhesives.
Types of Implant-Supported Overdentures
Overdentures can be removable or fixed. This depends on your needs and budget.
1. Implant-Supported Overdentures
These use 2 to 6 implants which are screwed into the jawbone. They aid in maintaining your present bone to stop further bone loss. 2 surgical operations are normally needed for this.
First, the implant is inserted into the jawbone, and then it is uncovered so a custom prosthetic can be created. This overdenture can be removed when it is time to clean or sleep.
2. Fixed Implant-Supported Overdentures
This overdenture is locked in place with screws. This cannot be removed. If you need to remove it, a dentist will be required to unscrew it.
However, this is the most stable kind of overdenture. Cleaning is challenging with these since only a dentist can remove it.
This is typically the most expensive option since 4 dental implants and screws are required to support them.
3. Bar-Retained Implant-Supported Overdentures
These overdentures have a bar attached to the implants that the denture can clip into.
The bar provides more security than a conventional denture while enabling you to remove and reposition the overdenture as necessary. This prosthesis can be taken out while cleaning and sleeping.
4. Ball-Retained Implant-Supported Overdentures
In this design, the overdenture has sockets that attach to ball-shaped attachments on the implant heads. The ball and socket system offers excellent retention and allows for easy removal and cleaning.
5. Overdenture Partials
You might require a partial denture if only a few of your teeth are gone. An overdenture partial performs the same functions as a full denture supported by implants.
One or more implants are used to replace the tooth roots, allowing the partial to clip onto them. Compared to a standard partial denture, a partial overdenture has a more natural appearance.
Implant-Supported Overdenture Procedure Steps
1. Consultation
Your dentist will review your dental and medical history, perform a thorough exam, and use tools like 3-D Cone Beam imaging to assess bone structure and determine if any additional procedures are needed.
2. Implant Placement
Under local anesthesia, the dentist will carefully position titanium implants into your jawbone using a 3-D surgical guide for precision. After placement, stitches are applied to aid healing.
3. Healing Period
You'll need to recover for 3-6 months, allowing the implants to fuse with your jawbone before proceeding with the next steps.
4. Healing Cap Placement
Once healed, the dentist will expose the implants and place healing caps to guide soft tissue recovery.
5. Impression for Denture
Your dentist will take measurements and impressions of your mouth and implants, which will be sent to a lab to create your custom denture. This may require several visits.
6. Final Denture Insertion
After adjustments, your overdenture will be securely fitted with a clasp. Your dentist will provide detailed post-care instructions for maintaining your new prosthetic.
Are Implant-Supported Overdentures Worth It?
It makes sense to question whether the cost of implant-supported overdentures justifies the expenditure. The short answer is yes! Why, specifically:
1. Enhanced Stability:
Implant-supported overdentures are sturdy and secure, so you won't have to worry about them slipping or falling out when you're eating or talking.
2. Greater Comfort:
Sore areas and pain can be brought on by traditional dentures. On the other hand, overdentures supported by implants are renowned for their reduced sensitivity and comfort.
3. Better Chewing Efficiency:
Thanks to the increased stability, you are free to eat a wider variety of meals, including your favourite crunchy, chewy, and fibrous items.
4. Bone Density Preservation:
By stimulating your jawbone, the implants help keep it dense. This avoids the bone loss that conventional dentures frequently cause.
5. Longevity:
Implant-supported overdentures tend to last longer than traditional dentures with proper care, making them a wise long-term investment.
Cost Considerations for Implant-Supported Overdentures
It is essential to consider the various expenses involved.
1. Implant surgery: The initial surgery to place the dental implants is a significant cost factor. The number of implants required and any additional procedures, such as bone grafts, can affect the overall cost.
2. Overdenture fabrication: The cost of designing and creating the overdenture itself depends on the materials used and the complexity of the design.
3. Follow-up appointments: Regular checkups and maintenance are necessary to ensure the longevity of your implant-supported overdentures.
4. Insurance coverage: Some insurances may cover the cost partially. This will reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Here is a general price range to provide you with a rough estimate:
Basic Cost Range:
At the low end, implant-supported overdentures for the upper or lower jaw can be purchased for INR 40,000 to 60,000 per arch. Usually, this cost includes both the implant procedure and the overdenture.
Mid-Range:
For a mid-range option that employs higher-quality materials and more intricate overdenture designs, you should set aside between INR 70,000 and 1,50,000 for each arch.
High-End Range:
Expensive implant-supported overdentures can range in price from INR 1,50,000 to 3,000,000 or more per arch and may be made of high-end materials and state-of-the-art equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Implant Supported Overdentures Work?
They work by anchoring dentures to dental implants. The dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and work as artificial tooth roots, providing a secure foundation. After healing, the dentures are attached to the implants, creating stability.
Are Implant-Supported Overdentures Worth It?
Yes. they offer stability, comfort and improved chewing efficiency and longevity. They can prevent bone loss and enhance your quality of life through a secure and natural feeling smile.
Are Implant-Supported Overdentures Permanent?
Although implant-supported overdentures are not permanent, with the right maintenance, they can persist for many years.
To keep an eye on their health and handle any difficulties that may develop over time, routine dental exams are crucial.
What are the Types Of Implant-Supported Overdenture?
Bar-retained, ball-retained, locator attachment and screw-retained overdentures are a few examples of implant-supported overdentures. The choice of type is influenced by things like personal preferences and the state of the jawbone.
How Long Did Implant-Supported Overdenture Last?
With the right care and maintenance, implant-supported overdentures can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years or longer. To evaluate their health and address any abnormalities, routine dental examinations are essential.
What is the Cost of Implant Supported Overdentures?
The cost of implant-supported overdentures in India varies widely, with basic options starting at ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per arch, mid-range options at ₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000, and high-end options at ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 or more per arch. Actual costs depend on individual factors and the chosen dental clinic.
How To Clean Implant-Supported Overdentures?
To clean implant-supported overdentures, use a soft brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner daily to remove plaque and food particles.
Regular dental check-ups are also necessary to ensure their cleanliness and maintenance. Remove them at night to allow your gums and implants to rest, and store them properly when not in use.
