Understanding Overdentures

Teeth chew food, but many people don’t realize that teeth also consist of nerves and blood vessels, and keep the jawbone healthy. Loss of teeth means that a person’s bite is not as efficient and may lead to dietary changes, such as not being able to chew certain foods (eg: buns, meat, apples).

It is the job of the dental professional to help preserve their patient’s natural teeth as well as good overall oral health. When tooth loss occurs, most Denver dentists will immediately discuss replacement with dentures or implants. Getting a set of dentures is the simplest way to replace teeth, and both patients and dentists show a distinct preference for overdentures. Overdentures reinforce the jaw and involve the remaining natural teeth to remain firmly in position.

Many people are aware that dentures are molded to fit the gums or anchored around the remaining teeth as in the case of partial dentures.

Overdentures can be fitted in either the upper (maxilla) or lower (mandible) jaw, though they will require more support in the upper due to the lesser bone quality as compared to the lower. Root canal treatment is performed on the remaining supporting teeth, then part of the teeth is removed to below the gum line and fitted with a clamp onto which the overdenture will clip. In this configuration, the overdenture is secure and functions very much like normal teeth. For a patient with no existing teeth, the dentist will opt to place at least two dental implants to support the overdenture. This provides the same strength as natural tooth roots and allows the overdenture to function well.

Like other varieties of dentures, overdentures are usually made in a polymer or plastic material. Patients usually prefer the more expensive polymer overdenture for its durability and natural appearance.

Looking after an overdenture is as easy as conventional dentures. They should be cleaned in the same manner as the teeth and gums after each meal, and taken out at night so saliva can keep the areas healthy. The overdenture must be soaked in a cleansing product to keep it bacteria free.

Dentures of all sorts may sometimes cause tenderness in the gums and the tissues lining the mouth, and therefore these regions should be maintained very diligently. Denture wearers who fail to maintain proper oral hygiene – including regular follow-up visit with their Denver dentist - run the risk of developing gum disease (gingivitis) or other potentially more serious conditions.