Implant overdentures offer superior fit and retention compared to traditional dentures. So what are they? Well, when you connect denture to dental implants, you have an implant overdenture!
There are two types of implant overdenture. The first is an implant-retained denture. In this arrangement, your denture can clip onto 2 or more dental implants using "adapters". The implants act solely as attachments so the denture moves and shifts less. The implants do not provide any support and are not under force during chewing. The second type of implant denture is an implant-supported denture. In this arrangement, 4 or more implants support the denture. Similar to an implant-retained denture, the implants keep the denture fixed in place and minimize movement. However, in an implant-supported denture, the implants are "loaded" and absorb force when chewing.
Generally, implant-retained dentures require 2-3 implants while implant-supported dentures require at least 4 implants.
Generally, each implant retaining or supporting an overdenture costs about $2,000 - $3,000. A complete denture including necessary modifications will cost roughly $2,000. So, an implant-retained denture held by 2 implants will cost roughly $6,000. An implant-supported denture including 4 implants will cost approximately $10,000. As adapters and other smaller components wear out over time, they will need replacing. So, it's important to understand that, like traditional dentures, there will be additional maintenance costs over time.
Implant overdentures provide greater retention and "hold" compared to traditional dentures. They can allow you to broaden your diet and enjoy a wider variety of foods. Suddenly, you will be able to enjoy crisp and chewy foods again! Importantly, you can modify most existing dentures to enable connection to implants. Based on the amount of jawbone remaining, your Dentist can decide if you have adequate jaw support to support a denture. Where jawbone is at a minimum, your Dentist may suggest an implant-supported denture to reduce loading on your jaw and gums.
If you would like more information on denture longevity and replacement, please read the useful article from the American College of Prosthodontics, here.
Thank you for reading!
If you would like to discuss a transition to dentures or would like to book a no-charge Meet & Greet appointment, give us a call at (519) 576-8160 or request a consult with me here.
Our Kitchener Dentist is conveniently located in Downtown Kitchener and we are a short drive away for families in Kitchener, Waterloo, Breslau & Stratford.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Kitchener Dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental condition or treatment.
