Aurora dentists know that the loss of teeth can result in many other health issues. An incomplete bite can affect how we chew and, consequently, what we can and cannot eat. This in turn can have serious consequences like acid reflux due to insufficiently chewed food and malnutrition. A single missing tooth can alter the alignment of all the other teeth and change the bite pattern of the patient, possibly resulting in pain for the entire head region including the neck and jaw.
There are two denture options for the patient who is missing teeth: a partial denture or overdenture to replace a couple of teeth, or a full denture which can replace all the teeth in either jaw. Partial dentures can be removed and are suitable for patients who have a few missing teeth, and are clasped to two abutting teeth (one on either side).
Overdentures are implant-fixed dentures that are more secure than traditional dentures. 
Typically 2-4 implants are fixed into the bone per arch, and the overdenture is attached to the implants - and is removable! The main benefit of overdentures is strength. If you are missing all of your teeth, the denture has nothing to hold it down while you chew. Overdentures resolve this and you can eat virtually anything. In addition, the implants reduce bone recession to help you preserve your bite and smile and improve your speech.
Most dentists are now recommending overdentures over traditional dentures to help patients preserve their oral health, bite, and smile. Cost is based on the number of implants per arch. The more implants the more secure the denture and the better the bite.
Dentures are not generic items, but are molded to fit the gum line and jaw shape of each patient. This process requires a comprehensive assessment of the gum line and facial bones of the patient to guarantee that the denture will fit. Sometimes, dentists may recommend extraction of the remaining teeth or reshaping of some parts of the jaw to fit the denture perfectly.
Patients have many material options to choose, and the choice can significantly affect the overall result and the expenditure involved. For instance, polymer dentures are more natural in appearance and are significantly more durable than plastic dentures. Many people opt to pay the higher cost for the polymer in order to enjoy the benefits. Sometimes more than one metal is used to provide a better fit, which consequently increases the cost of the denture.
Hygienic maintenance of your denture is not difficult and can easily be integrated into your regular dental care regimen. Most patients brush their remaining teeth, palate and gums several times a day, and add their dentures to this process, as well. Aurora dentists generally advise patients to remove their dentures at night, so saliva can do its job in keeping the mouth clean and so the dentures can be put in a germ-killing solution to remove bacteria. As the dentures sometimes irritate the gum and tissues, it is essential maintain good oral hygiene. There have been cases where gum disease and other more serious medical conditions have occurred due to a lack of hygienic maintenance of mouth and dentures.
Aurora dentists will recommend their denture patients return periodically for evaluation of their denture, gums, and supporting bone.
Restore your natural smile and eat the foods you want.
Call us today at (303) 364-4322 to schedule your complimentry overdenture consultation. Or select the link below to request an appointment online.
