Are you tired of struggling with traditional dentures that slip and slide, making it difficult to eat and speak comfortably? If so, overdentures may be the solution you’ve been searching for! Overdentures are a type of removable denture that fit over dental implants or remaining teeth, providing a secure and comfortable fit. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of overdentures available, their benefits, and how to properly care for them. Say goodbye to the discomfort and hassle of traditional dentures – read on to learn more about overdentures!
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What Are Overdentures?
Overdentures are an innovative dental appliance that provides a comfortable and secure fit for individuals who have lost some or all of their teeth. They are different from traditional dentures because they attach to the remaining natural teeth and/or dental implants, creating greater stability.
There are two primary types of overdentures: tooth-supported and implant-supported. Tooth-supported overdentures use the remaining natural teeth as anchors, while implant-supported overdentures rely on dental implants to provide support.
Tooth-supported overdentures require healthy and sturdy natural teeth for optimal support. If these conditions aren’t met, then implant-supported overdentures may be recommended instead. Implant-supported overdentures can replace multiple missing teeth with fewer implants than individual crowns or bridges would require.
Overdenture treatment typically involves several appointments over several months to ensure proper fitting and attachment. Once attached, patients can enjoy many benefits such as improved speech, chewing functionality, facial structure restoration as well as better oral hygiene through easier cleaning access compared to traditional denture wearers.
Overdentures offer an excellent alternative option for replacing missing teeth with a more stable solution than traditional removable dentures or fixed bridgework alone.
The Different Types
Overdentures are a popular treatment option for people who have lost some or all of their teeth. They can either be attached to dental implants or anchored onto remaining natural teeth.
The two main types of overdentures are implant-supported and tooth-supported. Implant-supported overdentures use dental implants as support, while tooth-supported overdentures rely on the remaining natural teeth as anchors.
Implant-supported overdentures consist of titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial roots for replacement teeth. The denture then snaps onto the implants, providing stability and comfort.
Tooth-supported overdentures, also known as partial dentures, attach to your existing healthy teeth using clasps or other attachments. This type of overdenture is ideal for those with one or more missing teeth but still have healthy surrounding ones.
It’s important to consult with your dentist to determine which type of overdenture is best suited for you based on your individual needs and oral health status. Regardless of the type chosen, both options offer improved chewing ability, speech function, and overall confidence in daily life.
The Benefits Of Overdentures
Overdentures offer a range of benefits, making them an increasingly popular option for those requiring dentures. Firstly, they provide better stability and retention than traditional dentures. This is because they are secured in place using dental implants or remaining natural teeth, which provide greater support to the surrounding bone.
Additionally, overdentures can help to preserve the jawbone by stimulating bone growth. Traditional dentures do not offer this benefit and can cause the jawbone to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation.
Another advantage of overdentures is improved speech and chewing ability since they fit more securely in your mouth compared to traditional removable denture options.
Furthermore, having overdentures means you no longer have to worry about messy adhesives or removing them for cleaning as often as regular removable denture devices would require it.
Overdenture patients report higher levels of satisfaction with their oral health overall when compared with other types of prosthetic solutions thanks to the improved comfortability that these implant-retained appliances provide while eating or speaking daily without pain or discomfort.
How To Take Care
Taking care of your overdentures is crucial to ensure their longevity and maintain good oral health. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your overdentures.
Firstly, make sure to brush your overdentures daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be too abrasive and damage the surface of the dentures.
After brushing, rinse your overdentures thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or debris. It’s important not to skip this step as leaving any residue on the denture can cause irritation or infection in your mouth.
When you’re not wearing your overdentures, store them in a clean container filled with water or a special soaking solution recommended by your dentist. This will help prevent them from drying out and cracking over time.
Be sure to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments if necessary. Your dentist can also guide proper care techniques specific to the type of overdenture that you have.
In summary, taking good care of your overdentures involves daily brushing, thorough rinsing after cleaning, proper storage when not in use, and regular dental visits for maintenance.
Bottom Line
Overdentures are a great option for those who have lost some or all of their teeth. They provide numerous benefits such as improved speech and chewing ability, better oral health, and increased confidence.
When considering getting overdentures, it’s important to choose the right type based on your needs and preferences. It’s also crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits and regularly visit your dentist for check-ups.
Remember that getting used to new dentures takes time and patience. However, with proper care and adjustments from your dental professional, you can enjoy all the benefits of having comfortable and functional teeth once again.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about overdentures so that you can make an informed decision about whether they’re the right choice for you.
