Are you missing some or all of your teeth? Do you struggle to eat or speak comfortably? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world face the challenges of tooth loss. Fortunately, there are a variety of restorative dentistry options available to help you regain your smile and improve your oral health.
Overdentures are one such option that can be a great solution for many people. In this article, we'll explore what overdentures are, how they work, and whether they might be right for you.
What are Overdentures?
Overdentures are a type of removable denture that is anchored to dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures that rest directly on the gums, overdentures are attached to a small number of implants surgically placed in the jawbone. This provides several advantages, including:
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Improved stability: Overdentures are much more stable than traditional dentures, reducing the risk of slipping or falling out. This makes it easier to eat, speak, and laugh with confidence.
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Enhanced comfort: The implants provide support for the overdenture, which helps to reduce pressure on the gums and improve comfort.
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Improved oral health: Overdentures help to preserve the jawbone, which can prevent facial sagging and other problems associated with tooth loss. Additionally, they are easier to clean than traditional dentures, which can help to improve overall oral health.
How do Overdentures Work?
The process of getting overdentures typically involves several steps:
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Consultation and Evaluation: The first step is to consult with a prosthodontist to discuss your candidacy for overdentures. They will assess your oral health and determine whether implants are a suitable option for you.
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Implant Placement: If you are a candidate for overdentures, the next step is to have dental implants surgically placed in your jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia and takes several months to heal.
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Overdenture Fabrication: Once the implants have healed, the prosthodontist will take impressions of your mouth and fabricate the overdenture. This may involve multiple appointments to ensure a proper fit.
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Placement and Adjustments: The final step is to place the overdenture and make any necessary adjustments. The prosthodontist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your overdentures and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Are Overdentures Right for You?
Overdentures can be a great option for many people who are missing some or all of their teeth. However, it is important to discuss the pros and cons of overdentures with your prosthodontist to determine if they are the right choice for you. Some factors to consider include:
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Overall health: Overdenture surgery requires good overall health. If you have any underlying health conditions, it is important to discuss them with your prosthodontist and medical doctor before proceeding.
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Bone density: Overdentures require sufficient bone density to support the implants. If you have experienced significant bone loss, you may not be a candidate for this procedure.
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Cost: Overdentures are typically more expensive than traditional dentures. However, they can offer significant long-term benefits that may make them a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
Overdentures are a viable restorative dentistry option that can help you regain your smile and improve your oral health. If you are missing some or all of your teeth and are interested in learning more about overdentures, talk to your prosthodontist. They can help you determine if this is the right option for you and answer any questions you may have.
Dental Blog | Prosthodontist Houston, TX | Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS Dr. Alexandra Garcia is offering this blog as a resource to the community. Click here to learn more about procedures, home care, and a variety of other dental topics! Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS, 777 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 625, Houston, TX 77056 ^ (346) 250-2930 ^ dralexandragarcia.com ^ 12/3/2024 ^ Page Keywords: dental implants Houston TX ^
Are you missing some or all of your teeth? Do you struggle to eat or speak comfortably? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world face the challenges of tooth loss. Fortunately, there are a variety of restorative dentistry options available to help you regain your smile and improve your oral health.