Dentures and implant overdentures

Types of removable teeth

• Complete dentures replace all the teeth in an arch and rest on the gums.
• Partial dentures replace some teeth and attach to the remaining natural teeth.
• Immediate dentures are placed on the day teeth are removed, so there is no period without teeth. They are adjusted or replaced as the gums heal.
• Implant overdentures are removable dentures that clip onto dental implants, which keeps them from moving.

Why dentures stop fitting

After teeth are lost, the jawbone gradually shrinks, and the gums change shape with it. A denture that fit well can become loose over the years, which is why dentures that slip, click or rub are a common reason to see a prosthodontist. Sometimes a reline or a remake is enough. In other cases, adding implants gives the denture something stable to hold on to.

Overdenture or fixed implant teeth

• An overdenture is taken out for cleaning. It usually needs fewer implants and is often easier to maintain.
• A fixed full-arch bridge is attached to the implants and is not removed at home. It generally needs more implants and enough bone to support them.

Which one suits you depends on bone, bite, the shape of the gums, cleaning ability and personal preference. A cone beam CT and a digital design help show what is possible before any surgery is planned. The guide to implant-supported restorations describes the planning in more detail.

Questions to ask

• Will I have teeth throughout treatment?
• How many implants are planned, and where?
• Can I see and approve the tooth arrangement before the final denture is made?
• How is the denture cleaned and maintained, and how often is it checked?