What Are Overdentures?

Overdentures are used in conjunction with dental implants to provide superior stability, comfort, and convenience. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots crafted from titanium. After being inserted into the jaw bone, the bone is allowed to heal around the implant. From there, overdentures are placed onto the implants. Although implants keep the denture extremely stable, the denture can be removed easily for cleaning.

Are Overdentures Right for You? 

If you have dentures, then you’re probably well aware that they can be a real hassle sometimes. Dentures can easily slip out of place, especially when speaking and eating. This can certainly decrease one’s quality of life; many denture wearers don’t feel comfortable eating all the foods they once enjoyed. Others hate dealing with the mess and inconvenience of denture adhesives.

Overdentures can: 

• Improve self-confidence
• Solve chewing difficulties 
• Alleviate denture-related discomfort 
• Remove the need for adhesives 

What’s more, overdentures are minimally invasive. Usually, your existing denture can be adapted to your new dental implants. There are several options when it comes to types of overdentures. A consultation with your dentist can help you decide whether overdentures are right for you, and if so, which kind you should choose.

Types of Overdentures 

There are three main types of overdentures:

• Fixed implant-supported overdentures — This is an option for patients who have no remaining teeth on the top and/or bottom. The overdentures are secured to the implants; when they need to be cleaned, the dentist removes them using a special tool. 
• Removable implant-supported overdentures — Also an option for patients missing all of the top or bottom teeth, removable overdentures work the same way but is removed by the patient daily for cleaning. The overdentures will attach to the implants by snapping or being clipped into place. 
• Implant-stabilized overdentures — This is an option for patients missing their lower teeth. With implant-stabilized overdentures, the denture is supported by the soft tissue yet retained by the implants. This type of overdenture snaps out easily for cleaning purposes. 

Your dentist will perform a thorough examination then tell you the recommended options based on your dental needs. Regardless of the type of overdenture you choose, dental implants are an investment in oral wellness that last for many years.

Schedule Your Consultation Today 

If you have missing teeth, or if you already wear removable dentures, dental implants and overdentures might be perfect for you. The first step is to schedule your appointment — call Woo Family Dentistry at 510-351-0931 today. Dr. Woo and his friendly staff are ready to provide you with the superior dental care you deserve in their welcoming, modern San Leandro dental office.