Traditional dentures are a good tooth-replacement solution for patients as they are relatively affordable. This is especially true when the patient is missing all of their teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Dentures which are well-made can help restore the function of the patient’s missing teeth in addition to their smile.
One major disadvantage of traditional dentures is that they can limit what a patient is able to eat because they are not stable and can easily slip out of place. There is reduced function with complete dentures which can make it difficult to chew most meats and other types of foods. Most patients who wear dentures find that upper dentures are more stable than lower dentures. Lower dentures are less stable mainly due to the frequent movement of the tongue during chewing and speaking.
Implant Overdentures
Implant overdentures resolve many of the issues associated with dentures. They are more comfortable and significantly more stable than traditional dentures. The removable denture is connected to two or more dental implants, which provide an incredibly strong foundation. In most cases, the dentist does not need to place more than two implants to ensure there is enough support for the dentures. When more implants are used, it can sometimes cause issues with the attachment and removal of the device. An implant attachment which is on the top of the implant allows the dentures to connect to the implants. The attachment is strong enough to endure the forces of chewing and keep the dentures in place. The attachment also makes it relatively easy to remove the dentures as needed.
Some of the main advantages of the overdentures is that the attachments prevent discomfort from the denture resting on the gums. This also gives overdenture wearers the ability to eat most types of foods without limitation or discomfort. Most patients who wear overdenture find that they are incredibly secure and comfortable compared to traditional lower dentures.
When patients have a severe gag reflex, it can be quite problematic for patients with an upper denture. Upper dentures use suction which is placed over the palate. This is required to ensure the upper dentures fit properly. Patients with a strong gag reflex find it to be impossible to properly extend the denture. In this case, implant overdentures may be a great alternative for the patient. Because the denture is attached using the attachment which connects to the implants, it does not need to cover the palate. This helps prevent triggering the patient’s gag reflex.
One of the main disadvantages associated with implant-supported overdentures is that they may meet all of the patient’s goals for treatment. Because the denture can be removed and rests on the gums, it does not function as well as a typical dental implant. While the function of the overdenture is far improved compared to traditional dentures, it does not function like the natural teeth. Some research suggests that dentures help restore about 20% of the tooth’s function. Overdentures increase the restoration of function to about 40 or 50% of the normal biting force. However, this number is quite low compared to what most patients expect with dental implants.
Implant supported overdentures will require some maintenance over time. A common issue is normal wear and tear. Because the prosthetic is snapped in and out so frequently, it will eventually wear out over time. This can reduce the function of the attachment and make the overdenture feel loose. On average, the overdenture will require maintenance about every 12-18 months. In most cases, the maintenance can be performed during the routine cleaning appointment. Additional appointments can be scheduled as needed. Patients will incur a fee for maintenance or the replacement of any attachment parts. The denture is supported by gum tissue. As a result, the denture may need to be modified to ensure it fits properly. There can also be a change in the shape of the gum line and resorption which require adjustments. Patients typically need to reline an implant overdenture every three to five years. This helps ensure the overdenture fits properly.
Contact your dentist to discuss if you may be a good candidate for an overdenture as a tooth-replacement solution.