What are Overdentures? Procedure, Types, Cost and More

Overdentures are a revolutionary step forward in dental prosthetics, designed to address missing teeth with greater stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. 

Unlike standard dentures, which rely on suction or adhesive to stay in place, overdentures are anchored by dental implants, providing a secure fit and a more natural feel.

This added support not only enhances comfort but also improves your ability to eat, drink, and speak with ease. Overdentures come in various styles, including full and partial sets, and can be either fixed or removable, tailored to your specific needs. During your consultation, your dentist will help you explore the best options and align them with your budget.

What are the Overdenture Procedure Steps?

1. The process of getting overdentures begins with a consultation with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate and to discuss your treatment goals. If it is determined that you are a good candidate for overdentures, the implants will be implanted next.
2. Dental implants are surgically implanted into your jawbone by your dentist. Your unique treatment plan will decide the placement and number of implants you get. 
3. After the implants are implanted, you will go through a healing process that can last many months. During this time, your dentist may offer temporary dentures to assist with eating. 
4. Abutments are placed on top of the implants after they have healed. These attachments will be connected to by the overdentures.  
5. After the abutments have been installed, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth and have the overdentures made to fit you perfectly. 
6. When the overdentures are finished, they will be put and fitted to ensure that they are pleasant to wear regularly. 
7. If they are unpleasant, notify your dentist, and they will be able to alter them to guarantee the correct fit. It may take some time to adjust to the new sensation, but it should not be painful. 
8. Attend all follow-up appointments so your dentist may evaluate how the overdentures fit. 

Types of Overdentures

Overdentures can be fixed in place or removable depending on your needs and budget. 

Both types feel more comfortable and look more natural than a regular denture. 

1. Implant-Supported Overdentures

Two to six implants are screwed into the jawbone to support implant-supported overdentures. They aid in the retention of existing bone, preventing future degradation. 

Typically, an implant-supported overdenture necessitates two surgical procedures. The first involves inserting the implant into the jawbone, and the second involves uncovering it so that a personalised prosthetic may be created. 

This overdenture can be removed for sleeping or cleaning.

2. Implant-Supported Fixed Overdentures

A fixed implant-supported overdenture is screwed into place and cannot be removed. To remove the prosthetic, you would need to have your dentist unscrew it. 

This is the most stable sort of overdenture. Cleaning, on the other hand, is difficult since only a dentist can remove it. 

It is frequently the most expensive alternative.

3. Bar-Retained Implant-Supported Overdentures

A bar-retained implant-supported overdenture is affixed to the implants and can be clipped onto. 

The bar lets you easily remove and insert the overdenture while providing greater security than a traditional denture. 

The majority of individuals will only remove the overdenture to clean it or sleep on it. 

4. Implant-Supported Ball-Retained Overdentures

A ball-retained overdenture connects the implants to the denture through ball-shaped supports. 

It is more stable and functional than a typical denture. Ball attachments make cleaning and replacing parts easier.

5. Overdenture Partials

A partial denture may be necessary if you are missing only a few teeth. 

A partial overdenture does the same thing as a full implant-supported denture. It implants one or more dental roots so that the partial can clip onto them.

A partial overdenture resembles a natural tooth more than a typical partial denture. 

The Cost Involved in Getting Overdentures

• The cost of overdentures can be more expensive than standard dentures, depending on the type you choose, what your insurance covers, how many teeth are replaced, and if more teeth must be extracted. 
• The cost will also be decided by the materials utilized and the complexity of the technique. 
• The cost might range from a few thousand dollars to more than ten thousand dollars.  
• Because the cost of each treatment varies, it's critical to discuss with your dentist what type of treatment you require and to check with your dental insurance to see if they cover any percentage of the cost. 

Dentures vs. Overdentures

Dentures:

• Removable and cost-effective.

• May need frequent relines and repairs.

• Can loosen as the jawbone degrades over time.

Overdentures:

• Often permanent and stable due to supporting implants.

• Requires fewer adjustments and offers a natural appearance.

• More expensive but a valuable long-term investment in dental and overall health.

Advantages of Overdentures

1. Enjoying Your Favorite Foods

Hard and chewy meals are frequently difficult to manage with traditional dentures. 

Implant-retained overdentures allow you to more effectively break down your food, which aids digestion and enhances the amount of nutrients your body can absorb.

2. Boosting Your Self-Esteem

An implant-supported overdenture can restore your self-esteem by preventing face degeneration. 

Keeping the jawbone stimulated prevents shrinking in areas where natural teeth are lacking. Furthermore, there will be no awkward displacement.

3. Adhesives are No Longer Required 

Conventional dentures are maintained in place with adhesives, which can become sticky and impair the taste of food. 

Implant-retained overdentures eliminate the need for adhesives, as well as the related added cost, mess, and inconvenience.

4. Improving Your Health 

Overdentures not only improve your smile's beauty but also your chewing function and speaking. All of this will improve your psychological and physical wellness.

5. Protecting Jawbone

​Implant-supported overdentures are held in place by titanium implants that bond with bone. 

In contrast to traditional dentures, which can actually accelerate bone loss, this osseointegration procedure helps to protect your jawbone.

Disadvantages of Overdentures

Overdentures may not be the best option for everyone who has lost all of their teeth. 

Here are some of the things to think about when it comes to overdentures.

1. Overdenture Implants Need Healthy Gums And Bone

• Overdenture dental implants require healthy gums and bones to function properly. This means that any gum disease must be completely addressed before surgery.
• Patients with uncontrolled diabetes may not be suitable candidates for dental implants due to infection and healing issues.
• Smoking can significantly increase the likelihood of your dental implants failing. In your specific case, your dentist can discuss the advantages of stopping smoking.

2. The Process Takes Several Months

• It may take up to 6 months from the commencement of therapy to be able to wear your personalized overdentures. 
• Dental implants frequently necessitate two surgeries, including time for the bone and gums to heal. 
• Conventional dentures are frequently put in 8 to 12 weeks. 
• For some, the time and effort required for overdentures may appear excessive, but it is crucial to consider the aforementioned benefits as well.

Hybrid vs OverDentures

Hybrid Prosthesis:

• Provides new teeth attached to the jaw via a metal framework.

• Made of a metallic skeleton with acrylic or porcelain teeth.

• Requires at least six osseointegrated implants for support.

• Ideal for patients with advanced jaw bone loss.

• Offers a natural appearance and strong foundation.

• Permanently fixed; cannot be removed by the patient.

Overdentures:

• Similar to standard dentures but supported by dental implants.

• Use locators screwed into 2-6 implants to hold dentures in place.

• ​Dentures snap into implant locators with metal housings and nylon fittings.

• Can be removed by the patient for cleaning and maintenance.

Conclusion

Overdentures are used to replace missing teeth and are more effective than traditional dentures, making them an excellent option for patients who are missing teeth. They are dental prosthetics that are held in place by implants. 

There are two kinds of overdentures: detachable and non-removable. If you have missing teeth and want to learn more about overdentures and how they interact with your natural teeth, speak with your nearest dentist.

Overdentures are a long-term replacement for regular dentures.  While they are an expensive and time-consuming process, they can provide you more confidence and comfort when eating, laughing, or smiling.

Q1. Is It Possible to Remove Overdentures?

Overdentures can be taken out of the mouth. Because they can be removed for maintenance, they are convenient and simple to clean and maintain.

Q2. Are Overdentures More Effective Than Implants?

The decision between overdentures and dental implants is influenced by the individual's wants and circumstances. 

Overdentures are a more economical removable option, whereas implants provide a permanent solution with more stability. Consult your dentist to discover which choice is best for you.

Q3. Are Overdentures Covered By Insurance?

Overdenture coverage varies depending on the provider and plan. It is best to verify with your insurance company to determine the amount of overdenture coverage under your individual plan.

Q4. Are Overdentures Comfortable?

Overdentures are designed to be comfortable, and many patients prefer them over standard dentures due to their increased stability. 

However, comfort varies from person to person, so working closely with your dentist to guarantee a comfortable fit is vital.

Q5. How Do Overdentures Work?

Overdentures are intended to be worn on top of natural teeth, dental implants, or implant abutments. 

They are more secure than regular dentures because they give stability and retention. This design aids in the improvement of chewing efficiency and speaking.

Q6. How Much Do Overdentures Cost?

The cost of overdentures can vary greatly depending on criteria such as the quantity of implants required, the materials utilized, and the location. 

Overdentures are typically less expensive than full-mouth dental implant treatments. A dentist should be consulted for a personalized cost estimate.

Q7. How Long Do Overdentures Last?

Overdentures' lifespan might vary based on factors such as oral hygiene, wear and tear, and the materials used. 

Overdentures can persist for many years if properly cared for and maintained. Check-ups regularly to ensure longevity.

Q8. How Is an Overdenture Supported in the Mouth?

Natural teeth or dental implants are used to support overdentures. The dentist attaches the supporting teeth or implants to the overdenture, establishing a secure and stable fit within the mouth. 

This support system improves the performance and comfort of the denture.

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