What is the procedure of getting an overdenture?

Implant overdentures , also known as implant-supported overdentures, are a type of denture that is supported by dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, implant overdentures are anchored in place by attaching them to dental implants that have been surgically placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures provide increased stability, improved chewing function, overall functionality and enhanced comfort compared to conventional dentures. They are designed to fit over a few remaining natural teeth or dental implants. 

The cost of implant-supported dentures can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per implant, and a full arch of implant-supported dentures could range from $15,000 to $30,000 or more. These costs can change over time, and it’s best to get a personalized estimate from a dental professional.

 Steps Involved in Getting Implant-Supported Dentures

 The process of getting implant-supported dentures involves several steps, from initial consultation to final placement. Implant-supported dentures steps include:

•  Initial Consultation: You’ll meet with a dentist or oral surgeon for a comprehensive examination. Your oral health, bone density, and suitability for dental implants will be assessed.
•  Treatment Planning: Based on the examination, the dentist will create a personalized treatment plan. This includes determining the number and placement of implants, as well as the type of denture to be used.
•  Implant Placement: Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. This is usually done in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. After this step, a healing period is required for the implants to fuse with the bone.
•  Abutment Placement: Abutments are attached to the implants after osseointegration. These connectors will eventually anchor the denture.
• Impressions and Denture Fabrication: Impressions of your mouth are taken to create models for fabricating the denture. The denture is custom-designed to fit your mouth and attach securely to the abutments.
•  Try-In and Fitting: A try-in appointment allows you to test the fit and aesthetics of the denture before it’s finalized. Adjustments are made as needed.
•  Final Placement: Once the denture is ready and fits perfectly, it is attached to the abutments. The denture is securely held in place by the implants.
•  Follow-up and Maintenance: Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the health of your implants and oral tissues. Proper oral hygiene and maintenance are essential to ensuring the longevity of implant-supported dentures.

Implant overdenture: pros and cons

 Implant overdentures offer several advantages over traditional dentures, but they also come with some considerations. Here are the pros and cons of implant overdentures:

 Pros of overdenture

Here are some of the pros of overdentures :

• Enhanced Stability and Retention: Implant overdentures are securely anchored to dental implants, preventing issues like slipping, shifting, or falling out that are common with traditional dentures.
•  Improved Chewing Function: The stability provided by implants allows for better chewing efficiency, enabling you to eat a wider variety of foods and improving digestion.
•  Enhanced Comfort: Implant overdentures don’t rest directly on the gums, reducing the risk of gum irritation and discomfort.
•  Preservation of Bone Density: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping to prevent bone loss and maintaining your facial structure.
•  Better Speech: Improved denture stability can positively affect speech, helping you articulate more clearly.
•  Increased Confidence: The secure fit and stability of implant overdentures can boost your self-confidence, allowing you to speak, smile, and socialize with greater ease.
•  Long-Term Solution: With proper care and maintenance, implant overdentures have the potential to last for many years, providing a durable and reliable solution.

 Cons of overdenture

Here are the some of the cons of overdentures:

•  Cost: Implant overdentures can be more expensive than traditional dentures due to the surgical implant placement and related procedures.
•  Surgical Procedure: The placement of dental implants involves a surgical procedure, which may require some recovery time and may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.
•  Healing Time: There’s a healing period after implant placement before the denture can be attached. This can range from a few months to several months, depending on the case.
•  Maintenance and Care: While implant overdentures are more stable, they still require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure their longevity. Additional cleaning steps might be needed for the implant attachments.
•  Initial Discomfort: Some discomfort or minor pain might be experienced during the initial healing phase after implant surgery.
•  Implant Failure: While rare, there’s a risk of implant failure, which can be due to factors like poor healing, infection, or improper maintenance.
•  Sensitivity to Changes: Changes in your mouth, such as natural bone resorption, can affect the fit of implant overdentures over time, potentially requiring adjustments.