Overdentures at Polygems Dental Care

What are Overdentures?

Overdentures are removable dental prostheses that cover and rest on one or more remaining natural teeth, the roots of natural teeth, or dental implants. They are designed to improve the stability, retention, and comfort of conventional dentures. They can also help preserve the jawbone and prevent further tooth loss.

Overdentures can be either tooth-supported or implant-supported, depending on the type of abutment that provides support. Tooth-supported overdentures use natural teeth or roots that have been modified to fit the denture. Implant-supported overdentures use dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone to anchor the denture.

Why Do You Need Overdentures?

You may need overdentures if you have lost some or all of your natural teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, injury, or other reasons. Overdentures can provide you with many benefits, such as:

• Improving your appearance and self-esteem by filling the gaps in your smile
• Enhancing your speech and pronunciation by supporting your lips and cheeks
• Increasing your chewing ability and nutrition by allowing you to eat a variety of foods
• Protecting your oral health and preventing further bone loss by stimulating your jawbone
• Saving you time and money by reducing the number of implants and surgeries needed

How are Overdentures Made?

Overdentures are made by a qualified dentist at Polygems Dental Care. The process usually takes several visits and involves the following steps:

• The dentist will examine your mouth and take an X-ray or a CT scan to assess the condition and suitability of your gums, bones, and remaining teeth or implants for overdentures.
• The dentist will discuss with you the type and design of overdentures that best suit your needs and preferences. You can choose between different materials, shapes, sizes, colours, and alignments of your artificial teeth.
• The dentist will prepare your abutment teeth or implants by removing some enamel or tissue from them to make room for the overdenture. This may cause some sensitivity or discomfort.
• The dentist will take an impression of your prepared teeth or implants and send it to a dental laboratory where your overdenture will be fabricated. This may take one to two weeks.
• The dentist will place a temporary overdenture on your teeth or implants to protect them until your permanent overdenture is ready.
• The dentist will receive the final overdenture from the laboratory and place it on your teeth or implants. They will check the fit, colour, shape, and appearance of your overdenture and make any necessary adjustments.
• The dentist will give you some instructions on how to wear, clean, and care for your overdenture. They will also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.

What are the Benefits and Risks of Overdentures?

The benefits of overdentures are:

• They are more stable and comfortable than conventional dentures
• They look and feel like natural teeth
• They last for a long time with proper care and maintenance
• They can be removed and inserted as needed

The risks of overdentures are:

• They may cause some temporary swelling, bruising, bleeding, or pain after the treatment
• They may not be suitable for everyone depending on their bone quality and quantity
• They may require some adjustments or repairs over time due to wear and tear or complications
• They may be more expensive than other tooth replacement options

How Much Do Overdentures Cost?

The cost of overdentures depends on several factors, such as:

• The type and number of overdentures that you need
• The complexity and duration of the procedure
• The experience and qualifications of the dentist
• The location and reputation of the dental clinic

Can I Use MediSave?

Yes, you can use MediSave for the implant procedure.

Can I Use CHAS?

Yes, you can use CHAS for the dentures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about overdentures:

How long do overdentures last?

Overdentures can last for several years if they are well-maintained and cared for. However, they may need to be relined or replaced as your gums and bones change over time due to ageing or tooth loss. You should visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning to ensure that your overdentures fit properly and function well.

How do I clean my overdentures?

You should clean your overdentures daily to remove plaque, food particles, and stains. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a special denture brush and a mild soap or a denture cleaner to gently scrub your overdentures. You should avoid using toothpaste, bleach, or abrasive cleaners as they can damage your overdentures. You should also rinse your overdentures after every meal and soak them in water or a denture solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from warping.

Can I eat normally with overdentures?

You can eat most foods with overdentures, but you may need to avoid some hard, sticky, or chewy foods that may damage your overdentures or cause them to slip out of place. You may also need to cut your food into smaller pieces and chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth. You should also drink plenty of water and avoid drinking hot beverages that may warp your overdentures.

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