Dentures are among the most common types of treatment for missing teeth. Also known as ‘false teeth,’ this form of treatment has become more realistic in recent years, and there are now several different varieties, including full, partial, and implant-supported dentures.
An overdenture is a prosthetic supported by dental implants and securely attached to your jaw. Depending on how many teeth you need replacing and the state of your jawbone, overdentures can offer a highly beneficial alternative to both traditional dentures and individual dental implants.
Missing teeth are common in Australia, with one in 25 people aged 15 years and over having no natural teeth left. Dental decay is the most widespread cause of tooth loss, with trauma, gum disease, and hereditary conditions also major contributors. Age also plays a significant role, with seniors over 65 possessing the highest number of missing teeth. The consequences of not replacing missing teeth can be dire, including further tooth loss, loss of jawbone density, and even infection elsewhere in the body.
What Are Overdentures?
An overdenture is a removable dental prosthetic designed to clip onto a small number of dental implants. It is often referred to as ‘snap-on’ or ‘clip-on’ dentures. Overdentures rest on the gums and are anchored by dental implants, providing enhanced stability compared to traditional dentures. Implant overdentures stay in place and can replace all the teeth on the upper or lower jaw without adhesives. For patients with missing teeth, overdentures help restore functionality while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
There are two kinds of overdentures commonly used in dental practice:
Bar-Retained Overdentures
A bar-attachment overdenture includes a thin metal bar attached to two or more dental implants affixed to the jawbone. The overture fits over the bar and is secured in place using clips or other attachments. A stable and secure option, a bar-attachment overdenture offers an even force distribution and makes it easier to clean under the bar. However, it is a slightly more costly and complex option. Adequate bone density is also required for dental implant placements.
Ball-Retained Overdentures
Overdenture ball attachments function like press studs on this variety of overdenture, each fitting into a corresponding socket. This option is cost-effective and easy to fabricate, providing a strong retention level with fewer dental implants. It can allow for some slight movement, which can be beneficial for stress redistribution but may feel less stable than a bar attachment overture. The attachment may also require periodic maintenance or replacement.
The Overdenture Procedure
The process of receiving an overdenture begins with an initial assessment. During this stage of planning and consultation, your dentist conducts a dental examination and takes X-rays and CBCT scans to assess your oral health and bone structure. Your dentist will then discuss suitable overdenture types based on your unique needs.
Dental implant placement surgery is generally performed under local anaesthesia, although other options may be available. First, your gum tissue is opened to expose your jawbone. Next, precise holes are drilled, and titanium implants are inserted into the jawbone. The gum is sutured back, and the healing process begins.
Dental implants fuse with the bone, a process called osseointegration. After the first phase of osseointegration has occurred for approximately six months, the abutments with balls or a bar are placed onto the implants, and then the overdenture is constructed; this requires a minor surgical procedure. Abutments are connected to the implants. These could either be overdenture ball attachments or bar attachment overdentures.
The final stage is overdenture fabrication and fitting. Accurate impressions (or moulds) of the mouth are made to create a custom-fit overdenture. The denture is tested for fit, comfort, and aesthetics and secured to the attachment. After this, your dentist provides you with instructions on care and maintenance.
Care and Maintenance of an Overdenture
Overdentures are easy to clean and maintain. To prevent plaque build-up, remove and clean the overdenture daily and carefully clean around the implants and attachments. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner.
As is the case with regular teeth, it’s helpful to have a professional clean and examine your overdentures every six months. A professional will monitor the state of your oral health and pick up issues with your dental implants and oral tissues early.
The Benefits of an Overdenture
Overdentures have many benefits as a form of dental treatment, including:
Improved function and stability
Overdentures are more stable than traditional dentures. This reduction in movement has a few advantages, including clearer speech, more efficient chewing and less discomfort.
Bone preservation
The dental implants used to secure overdentures stimulate the jawbone, which prevents bone loss and helps maintain jawbone density.
Comfort and aesthetics
Compared to traditional dentures, overdentures reduce gum irritation and enhance smile and facial aesthetics.
Easy to maintain
Overdentures are easy to remove, so you can regularly clean both the overdenture and the supporting structure.
The Drawbacks of an Overdenture
No treatment is right for everybody, and an overdenture also has its downsides, including:
Higher initial cost
Overdentures can often be more expensive due to the level of surgical work involved and the implant components required.
Surgical intervention
An overdenture requires one or more surgeries with associated risks like nerve damage, infection and dental implant failure.
Extended treatment time
Overdentures involve a long osseointegration period, which lengthens the overall treatment period before the final restoration. Their healing process commonly takes three to six months.
Maintenance requirements
Overdentures require diligent daily oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Attachments wear out over time and need periodic replacement. Heavy forces like clenching and bruxism may accelerate this process.
Other Treatment Options Available
Whether you have an entire mouthful to replace or a single missing one, there are multiple options for replacing missing teeth that you can choose from:
Fixed dental bridge
A fixed dental bridge can provide an effective solution if you’re missing more than one tooth in the same area. A fixed bridge attaches a prosthetic to adjacent teeth and seals it using dental cement. While fixed dental bridges are usually more affordable than dental implants, they can be challenging to clean beneath. A poorly fitting bridge may also damage adjoining teeth over time.
All-on-4® implants
All-on-4® is an advanced dental restoration solution that offers a long-term, fixed alternative to dentures. All-on-4® uses only four implants to support an entire arch of new teeth on either the upper or lower jawbone. Pioneered by Dr Paulo Malo in 1998, the treatment provides patients with a brand-new set of teeth in just 24 hours.
All-on-4®’s benefits include a 98% success rate, an innovative procedure that avoids dental bone grafting and a shorter recovery period. While overdentures offer significant improvements in comfort, function and appearance, All-on-4® dental implants do the same while providing a faster pathway to your new set of teeth.
Book an Obligation-Free Consultation with Next Smile Australia
Sometimes, you just need a little professional guidance to find the right dental procedure for you. If you’re wondering whether the All-on-4® or overdentures are best for your situation, Next Smile Australia can help.
Next Smile Australia carries out All-on-4® treatments in accordance with the Malo Protocol. Pioneered by Dr Paulo Malo, this two-bridge treatment process has a proven track record of effective, long-term results.
Our implant overdenture procedures offer patients similarly exceptional results in comfort, function, and appearance for those who want a more stable form of denture. When deciding the most suitable option tailored to individual needs and health conditions, it's important to consider both the benefits and the responsibilities, such as surgical requirements and ongoing maintenance. Whether you choose All-on-4® or overdentures, Next Smile Australia takes a compassionate, professional approach to both your patient journey and aftercare.
Next Smile Australia’s medically regulated, industry-leading Super Clinics are designed to surgery-grade standards, use first-class technology, and most offer state-of-the-art surgical rooms. Our team takes an empathetic, personalised approach to your dental restoration journey, and we offer transparent pricing with flexible treatment options and payment plans.
To book an obligation-free consultation, contact Next Smile Australia.