The Comfortable Solution For Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can make eating, speaking, and smiling difficult. It can take away your confidence and self-esteem. But you don’t have to live with that embarrassment and frustration any longer. Overdentures offer an effective and affordable solution to restore your ability to enjoy life again.
With customized overdentures anchored by your remaining teeth or dental implants, you’ll finally be able to bite, chew, and smile with confidence and comfort. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from being yourself. Take control of your health and schedule a consultation with us today. Call Bell Family Dentistry at (209) 869-4505 - we’re ready to give you the smile you’ve been missing.
What are Overdentures?
Overdentures are removable dentures that fit over and are supported by remaining natural teeth or dental implants. Unlike conventional dentures that rest on the gums, overdentures anchor to the remaining roots or implants for extra stability and retention.
They look similar to complete dentures but have protruding posts, bars, or attachments that secure into the bone. Overdentures can be a great alternative to fixed bridges, because they can be taken out and cleaned, making hygiene easier.
Benefits of Overdentures
Overdentures offer many advantages over conventional dentures:
- Improved Fit and Comfort - Overdentures retain much better because don't slide around in the mouth. This provides a more secure and comfortable feel.
- Better Chewing Ability - The added stability makes overdentures more functional for eating harder foods.
- Preserve Bone - The implants that secure overdentures prevent bone loss under missing teeth, which helps maintain the facial structure.
- Easier Speech - the increased stability of overdentures improves pronunciation and allows clearer speech.
- Enhanced Appearance - Overdentures prevent the collapsing of the lips and cheeks for a more youthful look.
- Removable for Cleaning - Unlike fixed bridges, overdentures can be taken out daily for easy cleaning.
Overdenture Treatment Process
The overdenture treatment process involves several steps:
Examination and Treatment Planning
Dr. Brent Bell will do a comprehensive exam of your oral health, including x-rays and impressions of your mouth. He will assess the health of any remaining natural teeth and the amount of bone present. Together, you will decide on the optimal overdenture design for your unique case.
Extractions and Bone Grafting
If you have any compromised teeth remaining, they may need to be extracted before overdentures can be placed. If there is not enough natural bone present, bone grafting procedures can be done to build up the bone. This provides solid anchoring for the overdenture posts or implants.
Dental Implant Placement
If using implant-supported overdentures, the titanium implants will be surgically placed into the jawbone during a minor in-office procedure. A period of three to six months is required for full osseointegration with the bone before the overdentures are fabricated.
Custom Overdenture Fabrication
Dr. Bell sends detailed impressions of your mouth to a specialized dental laboratory. A team of technicians expertly crafts a customized overdenture based on the design specifications. High-quality materials are chosen for optimal function, comfort, and aesthetics.
Insertion and Adjustments
At your insertion appointment, Dr. Bell will seat the new overdentures and make sure the fit is comfortable and secure. He will give instructions on how to properly insert and remove them. Several follow-up adjustment visits will be needed to fine-tune the fit and make any necessary tweaks to the overdentures.
Overdenture Maintenance
To keep overdentures functioning properly long-term, Dr. Bell offers these instructions:
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleaner. This keeps them free of bacteria, food debris, and stains.
- For deep cleaning, immerse your overdenturesin an overnight soak of denture cleaning solution. This helps remove stubborn plaque and tartar.
- Attend regular checkups with Dr. Bell every three to six months. He’ll examine your mouth and overdentures to make sure everything is still fitting and functioning properly. Over time as the bone resorbs, relining the overdentures may be needed to improve the fit.
- If a post becomes loose or an overdenture cracks or breaks, repairs can often be done to extend their lifespan. However eventual replacement is needed approximately every 5-7 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean overdentures?
Overdentures should be cleaned daily just like natural teeth, by brushing gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or denture cleaner. Make sure to brush all surfaces, including the gums and palate. It's also helpful to soak the overdentures periodically in an overnight immersion bath with a unique denture cleaning solution to remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup.
Do overdentures hurt?
There may initially be some mild tenderness and an adjustment period as you get used to having overdentures in your mouth. Your tongue and cheeks need time to adapt to the new shape and size. However, with a proper fit and design, overdentures should not cause significant ongoing pain or discomfort. Let your dentist know right away if you have any persistent irritation.
How long do overdentures last?
With diligent at-home cleaning and continued regular dental checkups every three to six months, overdentures can typically last 5 years or longer before needing to be remade. Those retained by dental implants tend to be the most durable and long-lasting overdenture option. However, periodic relining or replacement of worn components may be needed even with good care.
Can I sleep with overdentures in?
It is generally recommended to remove and thoroughly clean overdentures daily, including before bedtime. However, sleeping with properly fitted overdentures should not damage them, as long as you clean them well when you wake up. Some people prefer to leave them in at night for added comfort and convenience. Discuss your preferences with your dentist.
Stop Hiding Your Smile - Call Bell Family Dentistry
If you’re struggling with missing, failing, or unsightly teeth, overdentures could be life-changing. Picture having a beautiful smile you can’t wait to show off. Regaining your confidence and quality of life is possible.
Don’t wait another day - take control of your dental health. Call Bell Family Dentistry at (209) 869-4505 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bell. It could be the most rewarding decision you'll ever make.
