Overdentures

Some Boston residents are torn between wearing and maintaining dentures and investing in dental implants and permanent restorations if they are missing all or most of their teeth. If neither option seems ideal, consider implant-supported overdentures, which combine features of implants and dentures.

What are Overdentures?

An overdenture is removable, like traditional dentures. However, overdentures do not shift or pinch like conventional dentures because they attach to dental implants or the few remaining natural teeth in your mouth. If you have remaining teeth that can support an overdenture, these teeth must be prepared so the overdenture fits snugly to provide stability and support for the denture.

The most common type of overdenture attaches to dental implants strategically placed in the patient’s jawbone to support a metal collar, bar and clip attachment, studs, or magnets. Dr. Esrawi can help you choose the best overdenture attachment system for your needs and oral health. You can remove your overdentures for cleaning and when you sleep, but unlike traditional dentures, you do not have to worry about them slipping or falling out at inopportune moments.

Advantages of Overdentures

There are several advantages to overdentures compared to traditional dentures that sit on top of the bony ridge and gums in the mouth, including:

• It is easier to speak without lisping with overdentures.
• Overdentures do not slip, unlike traditional dentures.
• There is no need to use denture adhesives or fixatives with overdentures.
• You can eat more foods with overdentures, especially those that are crunchy, tough, or chewy.
• The implants supporting overdentures help support jawbone health and prevent the sunken facial appearance caused by tooth loss.
• Overdentures do not cause sore spots or rub the gums, a common problem with traditional dentures.

Overdentures vs. Dental Implants

Overdentures are a step closer to full mouth dental implants than traditional dentures, but there are differences. For patients on a limited budget, overdentures may be a cost-effective alternative to dental implants because treatment time is reduced and fewer implants are needed, reducing the price tag. There is also less need for bone grafting, reducing the time required to complete restorations.

Dental implants are usually the best solution if you need to replace a single tooth or just a few teeth. However, if you are missing all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, you can choose either full arch dental implants or overdentures.

Full arch restorations are permanently attached to the implants in the jawbone and cannot be removed except by a dental professional. You care for them like your natural teeth. Overdentures snap or lock into place using clips, magnets, or a bar attachment. They can be removed for cleaning and sleeping. They are highly stable and provide full bite force without damaging the gums by spreading the bite pressure over the implants in the jawbone.

Overdentures and dental implants both provide stability, aesthetics, and restore full function. However, overdentures are less costly, require fewer implants, and take less time to place and heal.

If you want to learn more about overdentures, our Boston office can give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. Please get in touch with us at Boston Office Phone Number (617) 725-0515 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Esrawi.