Overdenture Implants
Dentures are recommended for patients who need a full teeth replacement. When these dentures are secured on implants, they are called overdentures. A standard denture is affordable, removable, and offers a quick solution to replace missing teeth. These acrylic dentures help restore the function of teeth and improve oral aesthetics. Dentures allow patients to live a normal life, but they have some disadvantages. A normal acrylic denture may become loose over time due to bone resorption, which is a common occurrence.
As a result, you may need relines and repairs every few years. Besides, with loose dentures, there is always the risk of them slipping from the gum during talking or eating. In this context, overdentures offer the ideal solutions. Secured by implants, there is no risk of these getting loose. The doctor is an expert at setting overdenture implants and has helped numerous patients suffering from teeth loss. Overdentures offer much more confidence and comfort compared to standard dentures. Another major difference is that overdentures encourage bone regeneration, and thereby help maintain a naturally youthful appearance over time.
The procedure
Here are the steps of getting overdenture implants.
1. Initial consultation:
the doctor invites you to discuss your concerns with us. This presents a clear idea of your needs, concerns, and budget. The doctor will also conduct a thorough examination and review your eligibility to get overdentures. To receive implants, there must be sufficient bone availability where these can be placed.
In addition, the doctor will check your entire dental and medical history to deem your eligibility. Patients suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease may be considered unfit for an implant procedure. During this stage, the doctor will also take oral photographs, and digital x-rays to ascertain bone availability. The doctor will also let you know if you need additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus augmentation.
2. Placing the implant:
You will be operated on under local anesthesia. A surgical guide is used to determine the exact position of implant placement. The titanium fixture is surgically placed into the jawbone. Depending on your assessment, you may need two to four implants. Following this, you will be allowed the time to heal.
3. Healing process:
Osseointegration, or assimilation of the implant to your body, takes some time. Usually, one requires three to four months for full assimilation to occur.
4. Placing a healing cap:
After healing, the dentist would expose the implants. A healing cap is placed to guide the position of the abutment and the prosthetic.
5. Impression:
The next step is the development of the overdenture. Scanning or traditional impression is used to take an impression. This impression will be sent to the lab so that the denture framework can be made. The artificial teeth are placed on the overdenture.
6. Placement:
Once it is ready, the artificial teeth are secured permanently in place. The doctor will provide you with post-care instructions on how to take care of your overdentures. North County Dental Arts also encourage visiting the clinic at least twice every year so that we can assess the position of your overdenture and see that it is functioning properly.