Implant Supported Complete Removable Overdentures at Merrimack Smiles – Secure, Comfortable Solutions for Missing Teeth
At Merrimack Smiles in Merrimack, NH, we understand the impact that missing teeth can have on your confidence and overall quality of life. Our implant supported complete removable overdentures provide a secure, comfortable option to restore your smile and function. Planned and designed by our experienced team, including Dr. Mark Morris, Dr. Julia Kapala, and Dr. Catherine Cagino, these customized dentures are designed to enhance both appearance and functionality, enabling you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
What Is an Implant Supported Complete Removable Overdenture?
An implant supported complete removable overdenture is a prosthesis that replaces all teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Unlike traditional dentures, these overdentures come in and out of the mouth, securely attaching to implants with either a bar (bar-retained overdenture) or locators (locator-retained overdenture). After taking precise scans of your mouth, our doctors will design a custom-fit, comfortable denture, working with you to select the ideal shape, color, and size of your new teeth to create a natural, beautiful smile.
These overdentures are anchored in place by dental implants, which act as artificial roots embedded into your jawbone. The implants create a solid base, supporting the overdenture and helping to prevent bone loss over time, an issue commonly seen when natural tooth root structures are missing. With this support, our implant supported overdentures provide a reliable fit, allowing you to confidently enjoy everyday activities such as eating, speaking, and traveling.
What Is the Difference Between Implant Supported Complete Removable Overdentures and Other Denture Options?
When considering the right denture solution, it’s essential to understand how implant supported complete removable overdentures differ from other options like traditional removable complete dentures and implant-supported complete fixed (hybrid) dentures:
Stability and Daily Wear:
- Implant Supported Complete Removable Overdentures are secured by dental implants with attachment systems, like locator attachments or a bar, offering stability while also allowing you to remove them at home. This flexibility makes overdentures an ideal option for those who prefer removable dentures but want the added support and retention that implants provide.
- Implant supported Complete Fixed (Hybrid) Dentures are permanently secured in place using dental implants, giving you a fixed solution that feels and functions like natural teeth. Unlike other options, these dentures remain in the mouth 24/7 and can only be removed by a dentist, providing a strong, reliable option for daily activities like eating, speaking, and smiling.
- Traditional Removable Complete Dentures rest on the gums without implant support, relying on adhesives for stability. They must be removed each night, and, without the support of implants, may not provide the same level of security or help with bone preservation.
Bone Preservation and Gum Support:
- Implant supported Complete Removable Overdentures rely on implants for support and provide more stability and reduce the risk of bone loss, which is common with non-implant supported dentures. They offer a secure fit without relying solely on gum support, which helps reduce irritation and enhances long-term comfort.
- Implant supported Complete Fixed (Hybrid) Dentures also rely on implants for support to provide more stability and reduce the risk of bone loss, which is common with non-implant supported dentures. Unlike implant supported removable overdentures, hybrid dentures are designed to only be removed by a dentist.
- Traditional Removable Complete Dentures, without the support of implants, rely solely on the gums and may require adhesives for stability. This can lead to more frequent gum irritation and does not offer the same bone-preserving benefits as implant supported solutions.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Implant supported Complete Removable Overdentures are designed with attachments that allow for at-home removal, providing flexibility for cleaning. They enable easy access to both the denture and underlying gum tissue, making full cleaning simpler for those who prefer or need the option to remove their dentures regularly.
- Implant supported Complete Fixed (Hybrid) Dentures are designed to stay in your mouth during daily oral care routines. They have a small space between the prosthesis and gum tissue, allowing you to maintain oral hygiene without removing the denture from your mouth.
- Traditional Removable Complete Dentures, on the other hand, must be taken out each night for cleaning and to allow your gums to rest.
Choosing the right denture type depends on your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and oral health needs. Implant supported removable overdentures provide a blend of stability and flexibility, making them a popular choice for patients who want the convenience of a removable denture with the added benefits of implants.
How to Care for Your Implant Supported Complete Removable Overdenture
Taking proper care of your implant supported complete removable overdenture is crucial to maintaining good oral health and the longevity of both the prosthesis and supporting implants. Like natural teeth, your overdenture requires daily cleaning to keep it functioning well and looking its best.
Here are some essential care tips:
- Daily Cleaning: Brush and rinse your overdenture with non-abrasive denture toothpaste each day. Always rinse it after meals to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Gum Tissue Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your gum tissue after eating and at least twice daily.
- Nightly Removal: Avoid wearing your overdenture overnight. While it may feel secure and comfortable, leaving it in could lead to tissue irritation. Additionally, saliva production can decrease with age and your overdenture needs to remain moist to maintain its strength and fit, as it may become brittle if it dries out.
- Overnight Moisture: Keep your overdenture moist overnight to maintain its strength and fit, as it may become brittle if it dries out. This is especially important as saliva production can decrease with age.
Annual Visit with Merrimack Smiles: In addition to daily cleaning at home, an annual visit with our team is essential to keep you and your overdenture in optimal health. During these visits, we will:
- Assess the implants holding your denture in place to ensure their integrity.
- Review the effectiveness of your home care techniques.
- Professionally clean your denture and gum tissue.
Following these steps helps keep your overdenture in optimal condition and maintain healthy gum tissue by preventing bacterial buildup that can potentially lead to implant-related gum disease and even the loss of your dental implants and ability to support your overdenture as designed.
Why Choose Merrimack Smiles for Your Custom Dentures?
At Merrimack Smiles, we don’t just treat teeth—we care for people. We are dedicated to building trust with our patients through transparency, respect, and education. Our team is here to support you throughout the process, answering questions and helping you feel confident in your dental health decisions.
Patient-Centered Care and a Commitment to Excellence
At Merrimack Smiles, our practice is guided by core values of integrity, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. We aim to build lasting relationships with our patients through open communication, transparency, and respect. By educating our patients on their dental health options, we empower them to make informed confident decisions about their care. We proudly serve Merrimack and surrounding areas, offering high-quality interim partial flipper dentures tailored to meet your unique needs.
As Northern New England’s only B Corp-certified dental office, Merrimack Smiles is committed to sustainable and ethical business practices that benefit both our patients and the community. Our dedication to integrity, people, and place reflects our mission to positively impact those we serve.
Reserve Your Appointment Today!
If you’re considering implant supported dentures or have questions about the process, our friendly team at Merrimack Smiles is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how dental crowns can enhance your oral health and restore your smile.
At Merrimack Smiles, we do things differently. Experience the difference. Come smile with us!
