FAQs About Overdentures

If you have missing teeth, you have several options available for dealing with them. One popular option that you and your dentist can explore is the installation of an overdenture. Before deciding on an overdenture, here is what you need to know. 

What Is an Overdenture?

An overdenture is a combination of dental implants and dentures. You might have to undergo more than one procedure to have the overdenture properly implanted. During the procedures, your dental surgeon will insert implants into your jawbone. The implants will serve as the foundation for your dentures. 

Once your jawbone has healed, the surgeon has the option of installing either a bar-retained or ball-retained denture. You and your dentist can decide which is the best option.

What Is a Bar-Retained Denture?

Bar-retained dentures include a metal bar that curves along your jaw. The denture is then affixed to the bar and clips into place. The bar-retained dentures are very stable and look natural. 

There is a drawback to this type of overdenture though. The bar can sometimes snap, which requires replacement. There is also the possibility of the clips that hold the dentures to the bar becoming displaced. 

What Is a Ball-Retained Denture?

A ball-retained denture is different from a bar-retained denture in that there is no bar to attach to. Instead of a bar, the implant that is installed in the jawbone has sockets. The dentures are then fitted into the sockets with metal balls that snap them into place. 

Which Overdenture Is Right for You?

The overdenture you opt for depends on several factors, including how often you want to have parts replaced. With the bar-retained denture, you will need the bar replaced at some point. By contrast, the ball-retained dentures usually do not have parts that need to be replaced with proper care. 

Another factor that can influence which is the best option is how many teeth you need to have replaced and their location. If you need more than a few teeth replaced and they are in a row, the bar could be best. By contrast, if the teeth you need replaced are not next to each other, the ball might be preferable. 

Your dentist can help assess your overall dental condition and help decide whether or not an overdenture is an option and which one is best. Be sure to talk over your concerns with a dentist at Bellingham Denture Clinic before making your final decision on the overdenture or other dental options.