Overdentures
Tigard, OR
 Losing natural teeth can significantly impact your ability to speak, eat, and feel confident about your smile. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a range of solutions to restore missing teeth and improve oral function. Overdentures are an innovative and effective removable dental prosthesis option that combines the benefits of dentures with the stability and support of dental implants. It is one of the most used practical measures in preventive dentistry. Are you missing one or more teeth and looking for a reliable solution? At Lincoln Center Smiles, we provide top-notch overdenture treatments that are designed to bring back your beautiful and healthy smile.
What Are Overdentures?
Overdentures are removable dental prosthetics that provide stability and support by attaching to dental implants or remaining natural teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely solely on suction or adhesive for retention, overdentures use implants or natural teeth as anchors, creating a more secure and reliable fit. By combining the benefits of dentures and dental implants, overdentures offer improved stability, chewing efficiency, and overall oral function. Ultimately, overdentures can replace all upper or lower teeth or just a few missing teeth.
Types of Overdentures
There are two main categories of overdentures: tooth-supported and implant-supported. In cases where a patient has a few remaining healthy natural teeth, tooth-supported overdentures can be an option. These overdentures are designed to fit over the remaining teeth, using them as stable anchors. The remaining teeth provide support and stability, enhancing the fit and function of the denture.
On the other hand, implant-supported overdentures are attached to dental implants that are strategically placed in the jawbone. These implants act as secure anchors for the denture. These devices are recommended for patients who have a significant amount of bone on their jaw ridge. Dental implants and intraoral tissues support them.
Standard Dentures vs. Overdentures
While standard dentures and overdentures are tooth replacement prosthetics, they differ in several ways. Standard dentures rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesive for retention. While they provide a cosmetic solution for missing teeth, they can often feel loose, shift during eating or speaking, and lead to discomfort or sore spots.
On the other hand, overdentures provide a more stable and secure fit. By utilizing either natural teeth or dental implants as anchors, overdentures minimize movement, enhance biting force, and improve overall oral function. In addition, overdentures help to preserve the jawbone and prevent further bone loss.
Benefits of Overdentures
Overdenture appliances offer many benefits over traditional denture appliances. They offer improved stability compared to conventional dentures. Using natural teeth or dental implants as anchors allows the denture to remain securely in place during activities such as eating, speaking, and smiling, providing a more secure and comfortable experience.
With increased stability, overdentures enhance chewing efficiency, allowing you to enjoy a wider range of foods. The secure fit of overdentures provides a better biting force, making eating crunchy or chewy foods easier. In addition, overdentures supported by dental implants help preserve the underlying jawbone by stimulating it, similar to natural tooth roots. This stimulation prevents bone loss and maintains the natural shape and structure of the jaw, promoting long-term oral health.
Who Needs Overdentures?
Overdentures are ideal for individuals who have lost several or all of their natural teeth and are seeking a more stable and functional tooth replacement solution. They can benefit those who struggle with traditional dentures that may be loose, cause discomfort, or inhibit proper chewing.
If you think an overdenture appliance might be right for you, talk with our dentist today here at Lincoln Center Smiles about what options might work best based on your individual needs. You can also make an appointment by calling (503) 598-0898.
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