Should You Choose Overdentures?

Overdentures are an increasingly popular form of dental implants that are designed to replace missing teeth. The procedure differs from the single tooth implant method, but can have similar results. Here are some things to think about if you are considering overdentures.

What Are Overdentures?

In an overdenture procedure, your dental surgeon will insert attachments, or an artificial root, into your jawbone. After the gums heal, a denture is fit over the area. The result is a long-term solution to missing teeth. 

An overdenture differs from a traditional denture in that it does not rely on your gums to support it. The bulk of its support comes from the attachments that are inserted into the jawbone. This helps to avoid bone loss problems that commonly occur with traditional dentures. 

Why Should You Opt for Overdentures?

In addition to avoiding bone loss, there are a host of other reasons why you should consider overdentures. First, the overdenture is very stable. Unlike traditional dentures, which can sometimes slip while eating, the overdenture is firmly secured with the attachments. 

Overdentures also help to retain the structure of your face. When teeth are missing, your face can possibly take on a "sunken in" appearance. Without the teeth in place, the distance between the chin and nose starts to shrink. As a result, you can appear older than you are. 

Traditional dentures place pressure on your gums, which can cause changes in your mouth, such as your natural teeth shifting. However, with overdentures, this is less likely to occur. The overdentures usually do not impact adjacent teeth because they are supported by the attachments. 

Why Should You Avoid Overdentures?

Overdentures are more time consuming to have placed than traditional dentures. The dental surgeon has to allow your gums time to heal before the dentures can be placed. However, overdentures are far more stable, which can make the healing time worth it. 

Overdentures also need to be removed for brushing and flossing. For some, this can be troublesome. However, overdentures do not require special care. You can use liquid soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep them clean. 

The overdenture might seem bulky in the beginning and you could experience problems with speech and eating. Fortunately, the awkwardness passes. You can shorten the adjustment period by taking such steps as practicing your speech in the mirror and eating slowly until you become more accustomed to the new teeth. 

Here is some additional reading on how you can benefit from overdentures and other implant options.


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