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Dental health is important for overall well-being, and choosing the right type of dentures can significantly impact your quality of life. In this blog, we will explore the differences between traditional dentures and implant overdentures, explaining the benefits, and why implant-supported dentures are a worthwhile consideration.
Table of Contents
- Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Overdentures
- Benefits of Implant Overdentures
- Implant Overdenture Procedure
- Dental Implants in Deer Park, IL
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaway
Implant overdentures offer a superior alternative to traditional dentures, providing improved stability, comfort, and bone preservation. With various types available, implant overdentures can be tailored to your individual needs, making them a life-changing solution.
Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Overdentures
Traditional Dentures
Also known as complete dentures, they are removable prosthetics that sit on top of the gums and are held in place by suction and sometimes adhesive.
Though they are a common solution for patients without teeth, they can often be uncomfortable and may slip out of place during eating, speaking or laughing.
Implant Overdentures
Also known as implant-supported dentures, they are a type of denture that is supported by dental implants. These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable and secure base for the overdentures, which can either snap on and off or be permanently fixed.
Benefits of Implant Overdentures
Implant dentures have several advantages over conventional dentures, including improved stability, better function, and improved aesthetics. Here are five reasons to consider them:
1. Superior Stability and Comfort
Implant-retained overdentures offer you much greater stability compared to traditional dentures. They don’t shift or slip, providing a comfortable fit that feels more like natural teeth. This stability is especially beneficial when eating or speaking.
2. Improved Chewing Ability
With implant-supported overdentures, chewing becomes more efficient due to the secure attachment to dental implants. This allows patients to enjoy a wider variety of foods without worrying about their dentures moving or causing discomfort.
3. Preservation of Jawbone Health
Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevents bone loss which often occurs with edentulous patients (patients without teeth). This stimulation helps maintain the jawbone’s integrity and prevents the facial structure from sagging, which is a common issue with traditional dentures.
4. Improved Aesthetics
Implant dentures look and feel more like natural teeth than traditional dentures. They are custom-made to fit your mouth, providing a more natural appearance and boosting your confidence.
5. Long-Term Solution
Implant overdentures are a durable and long-lasting option for patients. While traditional dentures may need frequent adjustments or replacements, implant-supported overdentures offer a more permanent solution.
Implant Overdenture Procedure
The implant overdenture procedure typically involves two phases:
- Implant placement: The dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Denture attachment: After the implants have healed and integrated with the bone, the custom-made overdenture will be attached.
Are You a Candidate for Implant Overdentures?
To be considered a candidate, you should be in overall good health, with sufficient jawbone density to support the dental implants.
Individuals who have been missing teeth for a long period might have experienced significant jawbone loss. If that is the case, a bone graft may be necessary before implants can be placed.
Non-smokers or individuals willing to quit smoking will have better outcomes, as smoking can impede the healing process and affect the success of the implants. Good oral hygiene practices are essential to maintaining the health of your implants.
Dental Implants in Deer Park, IL
Implant overdentures offer an excellent treatment option if you are seeking a more stable, comfortable, and natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures.
If you are considering implant overdentures, visit Oral and Facial Specialists to book a free dental implant consultation. Dr. Thompson or Dr. Martin look forward to helping you smile with confidence!
If you live in suburban Chicago and are looking for dental implants in Deer Park or dental implants near me, contact the experts at Oral Facial & Implant Specialists. Call (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common complication with implant overdentures is peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the soft and hard tissues surrounding dental implants. This can occur due to poor oral hygiene, smoking, or other factors that lead to plaque buildup around the implants.
The dental implants themselves can last a lifetime, while the overdenture prosthetic may need adjustments or replacement, depending on wear and tear, and overall oral health.
Caring for implant overdentures is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush and floss them daily to remove food particles and plaque. You should also visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups to ensure your implants and dentures are in good condition.
