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Overdentures: A Comfortable & Support for Multiple Missing Teeth
If you have multiple missing teeth or do not have any teeth in your jaws then you may find it difficult to chew, smile, and even talk to people. This difficulty is one which affects your physical and emotional well-being. It can lead to challenges in daily life and people may avoid going out in a social setting altogether. However, this problem now has a simple and convenient solution in the form of: Overdentures. I am sure that you have heard of this treatment option but are not very clear about everything it entails. To clear up all your doubts and shed more light on this topic we have composed the blog below.
What are overdentures?
Overdentures like the name suggest are dentures which are given over natural teeth or dental implants. They are given to replace all the missing teeth in the upper or lower jaws. If the natural teeth are strong enough, they can provide support to overdenture. However, in cases where all the teeth are missing, we need to place 2 or more dental implants to provide a stable support and fix the denture onto the jaws.
What are the different types of overdentures?
| Type of Overdenture | What It Is | Where It's Used | How It Stays in Place | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Implant-Supported Overdenture | Denture that sits on dental implants | Upper or lower jaw | Attached to implants in the bone | Very stable, looks natural |
| Tooth-Supported Overdenture | Denture that uses remaining natural teeth or roots for support | Upper or lower jaw | Connected to real teeth using special techniques | Prevents bone loss, lasts long |
| Maxillary Overdenture | Overdenture for the upper jaw | Upper jaw | Can use implants or natural teeth for support | Strong fit, good for speaking and chewing |
| Mandibular Overdenture | Overdenture for the lower jaw | Lower jaw | Usually uses 4 implants or natural teeth | Stable and comfortable |
| Stud Attachment | Uses a ball-and-socket system to hold the denture | Upper or lower jaw | Ball (male) fits into socket (female) | Easy to take out and clean, good grip |
| Magnetic Attachment | Uses magnets to hold the denture | Upper or lower jaw | Magnets connect denture to implants | No need for perfect alignment, easy to use |
| Bar-Retained Overdenture | A metal bar connects implants, and the denture clips onto the bar | Upper or lower jaw | Denture clips onto the bar | Very strong hold, can remove when needed |
What are the steps performed to place Implant Overdenture?
A detailed check up
First the doctor performs an in-depth check of the gums and jaws to make sure there are no defects or swellings present around them. They may take a few x-rays and then they will recommend getting a 3D scan called CBCT done.
A systematic plan
Once a scan is performed the dentist can judge the amount of bone remaining, its quality and quantity. They can then suggest placing either two, four or six implants. The patient's budget and expectations are discussed, and an appropriate plan is formulated. Once the plan is approved by the patient a time and date are set for the surgery.
A well performed surgery
The dental implants are placed in the jaw during a carefully executed surgery. The patient is made comfortable using anesthesia. After the surgery sutures are placed and the patient is given instructions to take care for better healing.
An undisturbed healing period
Once the implants are placed, they take a few months to fuse with the bone. The exact time taken for healing will be determined by the dentist depending on multiple factors. The general health of the patient, the bone quality, bone graft used, additional surgical procedure performed will all influence the healing of the dental implants.
A well-balanced overdenture
After a good fusion is obtained between bone and implants the second stage is started. A denture is made and attached to the implants. This could be done with the help of studs, magnets or bars placed over the dental implants. After the denture is connected to the implants the bite is checked, and all necessary adjustments are made.
A regular follow up
To ensure a problem-free long life of the overdentures a six-monthly visit to the dentist is very important. They can check if you are keeping them clean and ensure the fit and shape of the overdentures is intact.
What are the Merits, Demerits and Complications in Overdenture treatment?
| Category | Details (In Simple Words) |
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| Advantages |
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| Disadvantages |
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To summarize:
an overdenture may feel like an extension of your teeth, but they can easily add to your life and lifestyle. If you have any doubts regarding overdentures, you can book an appointment with your dentist and clarify them. They can guide you better about the number of implants you would need, the time that would be taken and whether they will fit into your budget. Don’t let your mind be burdened by the lengthy procedure on high cost and think of it as a worthy investment for your future health.
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