Overdentures, also known as , are an innovative tooth replacement solution that combines the removability of traditional dentures and the solid stability of fixed dental implants. Our Greater Orlando, FL, dentists recommend them often to patients looking for a secure, comfortable, and effective way to restore missing teeth.
Here’s what you can expect with the and how this option can significantly improve your quality of life.
Understanding How Overdentures Work
If you’re not familiar, overdentures are essentially removable false teeth anchored to a set amount of dental implants. Instead of resting on the gums, the implants connected to the denture are embedded in the jawbone. This design ensures that they remain securely in place while still providing the wearer with the ability to take them out for cleaning and maintenance purposes.
An overview of what goes into getting overdentures includes:
- Initial Consultation and Assessment: The process begins with a comprehensive dental examination. Our dentists will evaluate your oral health and take detailed X-rays. We will also use 3D imaging to assess the condition of your jawbone to see if dental bone grafting is necessary and determine the best placement for the implants.
- Implant Placement: During the next phase, we’ll perform dental implant surgery to insert the titanium posts into the jawbone. These implants act as artificial tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for the overdentures. The number of implants required can vary, but typically two to four implants per arch are used.
- Healing and Osseointegration: After the implants are placed, a healing period of several months is necessary for osseointegration to occur. Osseointegration is the process by which the bone grows around the implants, firmly anchoring them in place.
- Attachment of Overdentures: Once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, custom-made overdentures are fabricated to fit securely over the tooth implants. Snapping into place on top using special attachments, overdentures result in a stable solution that’s not shifting or moving.
- Final Adjustments: Our dentists will make any necessary tweaks to the overdentures so they fit comfortably and function properly. This may involve minor modifications to the dentures or the attachments.
Ideal Candidates for Overdentures
Overdentures offer a wide range of advantages, making them suitable for various individuals facing tooth loss. A few specific groups who can particularly benefit from this form of include those:
- Missing Several Teeth: Overdentures are ideal for patients who have lost multiple teeth or all of their teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.
- Struggling with Traditional Dentures: Many people who use traditional dentures experience issues such as discomfort, slippage, and difficulty chewing certain foods. Overdentures can address and resolve these common problems.
- Who Have Adequate Jawbone Density: For overdentures to be effective, sufficient jawbone density is required to support the implants. Individuals with adequate bone structure are excellent candidates for this treatment. However, a dental bone grafting procedure can be performed for those with insufficient bone density to enable implant placement.
- Seeking Improved Oral Function: Overdentures can significantly improve oral function, allowing patients to chew, speak, and smile with greater confidence. This can lead to a better quality of life and increased enjoyment of social interactions.
- Concerned About Jawbone Preservation: Dental implants used in overdentures stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent the bone loss that often occurs with traditional dentures. This stimulation is crucial for maintaining the structure, density, and overall health of the jawbone over time.
- Looking for a Cost-Effective Solution: While the initial investment in overdentures may be higher than traditional dentures, their durability and reduced need for adjustments, replacements, or adhesives can make them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Explore Tooth Replacement Today
Overdentures from our , are a versatile and effective solution for those dealing with significant tooth loss or dissatisfaction with traditional dentures. Call Classic Smiles today at (407) 378-0139 to request an appointment and get started!
