Implant supported dentures, also called overdentures or “snap-on” dentures, are a combination of your conventional dentures and dental implants. Overdentures are a removable option that sits more securely on your jawbone through the use of strategically placed dental implants. Since secured down with dental implants, implant-supported dentures tackle the biggest issues patients face with conventional dentures, which is that they move about and fall out.
The ideal candidate for implant-supported dentures would have lost all their upper or lower teeth as overdentures are essentially full dentures/sets of prosthetic teeth that are secured to your gums. 3D imaging will then be used to assess if you have a sufficient amount of bone density in your jawbone in order to successfully insert the dental implants. If you don’t meet this particular criterion, a bone graft may also be possible. Any existing infection or dental conditions will have to be treated before treatment begins.
Easily removable – This makes it a lot easier to properly clean your prosthetic teeth and then insert them back in. This is also what differentiates it from other tooth replacement options.No loose teeth – You no longer have to worry about your dentures floating around in your mouth or uncomfortable pressure on your gums.No denture adhesives – Thanks to the use of dental implants, adhesives and other glues are no longer required to keep your dentures in place (so you don’t have to worry about sores either).Better functionality – Improved security allows your teeth to function better, essentially promoting better chewing efficiency, improved speech and better health.
When you lose your teeth, your jawbone is no longer stimulated and kept healthy by activities such as eating or chewing food. Eventually, your body will decide that this bone is no longer necessary and it will start to deteriorate. This bone loss can affect your oral health, overall well-being and lead to a sunken face in terms of appearance.
Conventional dentures lie on top of your gums and don’t necessarily stimulate your jaw bone either. With time, the subsequent deterioration will affect the fit of your dentures, making it difficult for them to stay in place. Dental implants, on the other hand, trick your body into thinking teeth are present as they are inserted and fused with your jawbone! This prevents any further bone loss.
In your initial consultation, our dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation, with the aid of 3D imaging, to assess your oral health and if you meet the criteria for overdentures. If any infected or damaged teeth are found, subsequent appointments will involve removing these teeth or fully treating any infection before resuming the process of getting implant-supported dentures.
Dental X-rays of your jawbone will be used to determine the exact size and placement of your dental implants. After being placed, there will be a healing period of up to 3 months, during which your implants will be covered with a healing cap. This healing period varies from individual to individual, however. Once healed, your dentures will then be placed. You may have to come in for follow-up appointments to ensure they are well-fitted to your individual smile!
Fortunately, looking after your implant-supported dentures is quite easy. All it takes is a consistent oral hygiene routine to avoid accumulation of bacteria and infection over time. You need to brush your teeth and along your gums after each meal, as well as floss daily. Soak removable dentures overnight with denture cleaning solution in order to disinfect it and keep it from getting brittle. Gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse it out thoroughly with water before placing it back in the next day.
We highly recommend scheduling a regular dental checkup and professional clean around the implants every 6 months for us to evaluate that everything is in order and to intercept any problems early on. Interested in restoring your smile? We offer quality dental implants and the best dental care available so call today to speak to one of our friendly dental professionals!
