The most common solution for missing teeth is either the use of a conventional denture or implant supported overdenture. If you are unfamiliar with restorative dentistry, the image that may come to mind when picturing dentures might be that of false teeth that comedically fall out of place. These are conventional dentures. Depending on how many teeth are missing, conventional dentures can be classified into partial or full dentures.

Alternatively, overdentures are dentures that provide a more innovative dental solution through the use of implants, for support. Implants are embedded into the jawbone, giving the denture a more natural appearance and more comfortable stability. They are retained with implants. Think of the concept of snap fasteners.

These different types of dentures have their own benefits and drawbacks. It is important to understand how each type works to find out which option suits you best.

Conventional Denture vs Implant Supported Overdenture

Conventional dentures are fitted into the gums after the teeth are removed. Depending on the type of denture the patient requires, any remaining teeth might also be extracted. This is especially true for full dentures.

A plastic base material is often used to replicate the gum tissue and to offer support to a set of natural-looking artificial teeth. The denture is commonly kept in place using a temporary adhesive. This allows the patient to remove the dentures at any time.

This type of denture is a popular option because it is simple and easy to wear. Plus, the wearer can take it off anytime for cleaning or when it becomes uncomfortable to wear.

But since the gum ridge collapses over time without the natural teeth's support, the mouth will often develop a sunken look. The conventional denture also relies only on the power of suction or adhesives to remain stable in the mouth, making speaking, and eating uncomfortable.

Compared to conventional dentures, implant supported overdentures offer a more natural look. An overdenture is basically a conventional denture mounted on permanent implants in the jaw. Aside from improving facial appearance, implant supported overdentures also improve the patient's eating and speaking functionality. No need to worry about the dentures falling off because they are retained by titanium posts inserted in the jaw.

Advantages of An Implant Supported Overdenture

Implant supported overdentures provide a better alternative to conventional dentures because they are more comfortable and stable. Here are the main benefits of implant supported overdentures over other types of dentures:

Permanent Tooth Replacement

Implant supported overdentures are effective in replacing the entire structure of missing teeth because they become part of the jaw. Instead of moving freely around the gum area, the denture fits securely in place on the gums because it is anchored to the implants.

Greater Comfort

The patient does not have to worry about dislodging the denture off with their tongue or the denture falling off during speaking since it is securely mounted in place. Talking becomes more natural because the conventional denture feels significantly more comfortable and stable as compared to the conventional type.

A More Natural Appearance

When teeth are removed, the jaw area will resorb over time. Because of this, those who wear conventional dentures often will have an older appearance than those with natural teeth. Implant supported overdenture reduce bone resorption because of the support they provide to the gums and jaw area.

implant supported over denture

Minimal Gum Irritation

Since the denture is locked in place over the gums by the implants, it doesn't move around and irritate the gum area.

No Denture Adhesives

The wearer doesn't have to apply adhesives every time the denture is worn. Adhesives can also cause irritation to the gum area. An implant supported overdenture may actually promote healthier gums by eliminating this form of irritation.

Healthier Diet

Conventional dentures limit what foods patients can enjoy. No hard and chewy food, like fried chicken, steak, or bubblegum, because they might break the denture or shift it out of place. With an implant supported overdenture, the patient has more dietary freedom, improving quality of life and nutrition.

Better Fit

Since the implant supported overdenture is secured to the implants by way of fasteners, it fits more snugly compared to dentures held by suction or adhesives.

Overall, wearing an overdenture can improve a patient’s quality of life. Instead of relying on conventional dentures and hoping that they do not loosen when talking or eating, implant supported overdenture makes their life easier due to the high level of stability.

Overdentures from Sterngold

When it comes to implant supported overdentures and other restorative dental solutions, Sterngold is at the forefront. They currently provide natural looking and convenient digital dentures, are currently the largest supplier of removable dental attachments globally, and one of the leading providers of restorative supplies.

Sterngold offers a wide array of products necessary for implant supported overdentures, including Digital Dentures, Implants, Abutments and Attachments for both partial dentures and overdentures, including Stud and Anchor attachments and Bar attachments. All products offered are closely monitored under the strictest international quality systems and have clearance to market in various countries.

Wrapping Up

An implant supported overdenture is one of the best alternatives for conventional dentures because they are more permanent and stable. Since the denture is retained by implants in the jawbone, the wearer doesn't have to worry about it shifting out of place when speaking or eating. An implant supported overdenture is also more comfortable to wear and improves the smile thereby improving the quality of life.

For more information about implant supported overdentures and the products used during the process, visit Sterngold.com.