Missing a number of teeth and wondering which treatment is the best to restore your smile? Advancement in dentistry means that we have a number of reliable treatments for you to choose from, depending on your specific needs and oral health, ranging from dental implants to dentures, dental bridges and more. One popular method is the use of overdentures. Here’s everything you need to know about this treatment before making your decision:
What are overdentures?
Overdentures are a combination of two popular tooth replacement treatments, dentures and dental implants. This is a set of removable, artificial teeth that are secured in place on to your gums using dental implants, which means they tackle the one problem most patients face with their conventional dentures- that they shift around and are more cumbersome to keep in place.
Are you a candidate for overdentures?
The ideal candidate for overdentures would have most, if not all, their teeth missing. Since dental implants are also utilized for this treatment, you need to have a healthy amount of bone density in your jaw to be able to securely insert the implants. If you lack this, a bone graft may prove necessary. 3-D imaging will be used to verify this, as well as to locate if there’s any deep infection present (treatment of infection and/or gum disease is a must before proceeding).
What is the process for getting overdentures?
Your initial consultation will include a thorough evaluation of your oral health and a 3D X-ray to determine if you meet the above criteria for overdentures. Any existing infection will be treated and 3D imaging will be used in helping determine the exact shape, size and placement of your dental implants. Your next appointment will include placing the dental implants, which can take up to 3 months to heal. During this time your implants will be covered with a healing cap. Once healed, you will then come in for your next appointment, to have your dentures placed!
After-care for overdentures
As with any treatment, your overdentures will also need special care and maintenance post –surgery. We recommend sticking to a soft food diet for at least 7 days after, and gradually shifting to a normal diet with care going forward. Your dentures are up to 10x softer than natural teeth so using special dentures cleaners, low-abrasive in nature, will significantly help with the long-term health of your prosthetic teeth.
Want more details on this treatment and wondering if it’s the best fit for you? Contact our expert dentists at Glenferrie Dental to schedule your consultation.