What is an implant supported complete removable overdenture?
An implant supported complete removable overdenture is a prosthesis that replaces all your teeth on the upper and/or lower jaw coming in and out of the mouth, firmly locking into supporting implants with a bar (bar retained overdenture) or locators (locator retained overdenture). After taking scans of your mouth, our doctors will design a custom-fit, comfortable denture, working closely with you to determine the shape, color, and size of the teeth, creating a natural looking and beautiful smile.
Implant supported complete removable overdentures are secured in place with dental implants, which are the artificial roots placed into your jawbone. These implants create a solid foundation to support the base of your denture. Utilizing implants allows for a secure and confident fit, as they help prevent your jaw from bone loss over time, a common issue when there are no root structures to support it.
Implant supported complete removable overdentures most closely resemble the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. Eating, speaking, traveling and many other activities will feel much like they did with your natural teeth.
How to care for your implant supported complete removable overdenture?
Proper care of your implant supported complete removable overdenture is crucial for maintaining good oral health and ensuring the longevity of both your prosthesis and the implants supporting it. Like natural teeth, your implant supported complete overdenture requires daily cleaning to maintain its optimal appearance and function.
It is important to clean your implant supported complete removable overdenture and underlying gum tissue at home each day; if not cleaned properly, they can develop bacteria that can be harmful to your health.
- Brush and rinse your overdentures with a nonabrasive denture toothpaste daily and always rinse your denture after eating to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
- Gently clean your gum tissue with a soft bristled toothbrush after eating but at least twice a day.
- Do not sleep with your implant supported complete removable overdenture in your mouth overnight. Because it feels comfortable and securely locked in your mouth with the bar or locators, you may be tempted to leave your overdenture in your mouth while your sleep. While you can take a nap wearing them occasionally, leaving them in overnight is not recommended.
- Keep your overdenture moist overnight. The materials your implant supported complete removable overdenture is made from need to remain moist to prevent from becoming brittle and retain the proper strength and fit, as we age our salvia production decreases and does not produce enough moisture for this purpose.
- Take your overdentures out each night. Allowing your underlying gum tissue a break from being covered and will help prevent tissue irritation and infection.
- In addition to daily cleaning at home, an annual visit with our doctors and team is essential to keep both you and your implant supported complete removable overdenture in optimal function and health. During these visits our team will:
- Review the effectiveness of your home care techniques and tools used.
- Assess the implants holding your denture in place to ensure their integrity.
- Professionally remove and clean your overdenture and gum tissue.
These steps help keep your denture in optimal condition and maintain healthy gum tissue by preventing bacterial buildup that can potentially lead to gum disease, bone loss and the ability of your implants to support your complete removable overdenture as designed.