What is an Implant OverDenture?
An implant over denture fits over your own remaining natural teeth roots or dental implants that have been installed by your dental clinician. The retained root or implant provides you with excellent stability and support for your denture implants.
How are implant over dentures or denture implants different from regular dentures?
Unlike traditional dentures, root-supported or implant-supported overdentures or implant dentures are held in place by dental attachments which provide the retentive strength that you desire. An attachment retained implant overdenture will provide maximum retention, increase in function, and added health benefits. Implant overdenture attachments are composed of two working components; the root post which is cemented into your root or an implant abutment that is threaded into your implant, and the denture cap which is retained in the underside of your denture.
The most important consideration in your decision to choose an implant overdenture or denture implant is the limited retention and stability of a traditional denture which relies on suction alone. Over time, retention only worsens due to continual bone loss (atrophy) of your dental arches from the lack of teeth. When a tooth loses bone support through the years, its root can be saved and used to anchor an implant overdenture. The significant concerns regarding function, retention, stability, mastication (chewing), and speaking can be overcome by maintaining the level of bone present in the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible). These issues can be successfully accomplished by keeping your own roots, or if you are edentulous (without teeth) having dental implants placed by your oral surgeon may be an option.
What are the benefits of implant over dentures or implant dentures?
- Saving your natural roots or having dental implants placed will preserve bone and will dramatically reduce bone resorption and deterioration that results in loss of jawbone height.
- Implant overdentures will control facial contour changes that lead to premature wrinkles and aging.
- Implant overdentures will allow you to chew your food better and speak more clearly. Studies have proven that overdentures contribute to improved chewing efficiency and phonetics.
- Loose dentures that cause embarrassment will be eliminated. Messy denture creams and adhesives are no longer needed with denture implants.