An overdenture is a type of removable denture that is supported by dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest directly on your gums, an overdenture is secured to a series of dental implants. This provides a more stable and secure fit and helps to improve chewing and speaking ability.
Overdentures are a popular option for those who have lost most or all of their natural teeth. In most cases, only 2 or 4 implants are needed for your “snap on” denture.
What is a Snap-on Overdenture?
An overdenture is custom-made to fit over dental implants. This design provides a secure fit without the use of denture adhesive. Once it’s snapped in, it isn’t going anywhere.
Implant retained dentures are shaped to the curves of your mouth. But unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums and can shift and slip, overdentures are securely attached in place, providing a much more stable and comfortable fit throughout the day. This stability makes eating and speaking much easier, as you won’t have to worry about your dentures slipping or sliding in your mouth.
From the outside, overdentures are typically designed nearly identically to traditional dentures. Each prosthesis is made to match the shape of your gums and mouth, with your new smile shaped and shaded to your liking. They give you a more confident and natural smile. With the implants underneath, overdentures are snapped into place instead of relying on suction to hold them in.
Is an Overdenture the Same Thing as a Snap-on Denture?
Yes, a snap-on overdenture is a type of overdenture that “snaps” onto the dental implants. This provides a secure and stable fit and eliminates the need for adhesives.
Snap-on overdentures are unique in that they have special locators under the base that clip onto the implants, providing a secure and stable fit. From the outside, snap-on overdentures look just like regular dentures, but underneath, they have small, special locators that attach to the implants.
This design means that you won’t have to worry about using denture adhesive or slipping and sliding, as the overdenture will be securely clipped onto the implants. Snap-on overdentures are a great option for those who want the convenience and affordability of regular dentures but with the added stability and comfort provided by implants. They’re the best of both worlds.
Do Snap-on Overdentures Need Denture Adhesive?
No, snap-on overdentures do not require denture adhesives or pastes. They are designed to fit securely over dental implants and stay in place without the need for adhesives.
Snap-on overdentures eliminate the need for denture adhesives by providing a secure fit that is attached directly to the implants. With traditional dentures, adhesive can sometimes become messy and can cause skin irritation, making it difficult to eat and speak with confidence, especially if the denture is rubbing back and forth during the day. Snap-on overdentures provide a stable fit without worrying about your dentures shifting or rocking.
Can I Upgrade My Denture to a Snap-on Denture?
Upgrading from a traditional loose denture to snap-on overdentures can be a great option for anyone looking for a better fit and more stability. With snap-on overdentures, you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite foods and speak with confidence, knowing that your dentures won’t slip out of place. Additionally, snap-on overdentures are a much more comfortable option because they don’t rub the inside of your mouth or require a seal underneath them.
Overall, snap-on overdentures are a great option for anyone who wants to upgrade their denture experience and enjoy a more secure and stable fit.
Will I Need to Take My Overdenture Out at Night?
Yes. Most patients remove their overdentures at night to give their gums and dental implants a break. Overdentures are designed to be removed easily and can be stored in a special cleaning solution or in a case when not in use.
Like traditional dentures, overdentures are not designed to be worn overnight. Wearing overdentures for extended periods, including while sleeping, can increase the risk of oral infection. Additionally, sleeping in your overdentures can also cause them to become damaged or worn out more quickly, leading to the need for premature replacement.
It’s important to remove your overdentures at night and store them in a safe and clean place, away from pets or small children. This allows your gums and mouth to rest and breathe, reducing the risk of infection and promoting good oral health. Cleaning your overdentures regularly is also essential to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
If your heart is set on a permanent prosthesis, something like an All-on-4 or All-on-6 system may be a better choice (as these hybrid “dentures” are nonremovable.)
How to Clean an Overdenture
Cleaning your overdenture is an important part of maintaining your oral health and ensuring that your overdenture lasts for as long as possible. To clean your overdenture, simply remove it from your mouth and brush it gently with a soft-bristled brush. You can also soak it in a cleaning solution for a specified amount of time to help remove any plaque or bacteria. Don’t use hot water or abrasive products (such as baking soda.)
Are Overdentures the Same as All-on-4 Implants?
No, overdentures and All-on-4 implants are two different types of dental implant systems. Overdentures are removable dentures supported by dental implants. In contrast, All-on-4 implants are a type of full-arch restoration that uses just four dental implants to support a full set of replacement teeth without a “plate” in the roof of your mouth.
Choose Our DFW Implant Specialists
If you’re considering an overdenture or any other type of dental implant therapy, the specialists at ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry in Dallas and Ft. Worth can help. Our team of experts has years of experience and a wealth of knowledge in the field of dental implants, and we’re here to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if an overdenture or another type of dental implant solution is right for you.
