How Long Do Overdentures Last?
Dental implants are a great option for almost any tooth replacement solution. Implants are made of high grade materials, and how long they last is only dependent on the construction and care for your prosthetic. If your overdentures are implant supported, or implant retained, what is the lifespan of the prosthetic? Everything depends on your needs and your hygiene routine, but there are some averages we can review to decide what you should expect.
What are Dental Implants? How can they help my dentures?
Dental implants are a transformative new way to affix dental prosthetics into the mouth; directly into the jaw. When patients lose teeth, there is a gap left behind. Without stimulation to this tooth root, the tissue within the gums and jawbone will start to degrade and shrink, ultimately leading to loss of development in the jaw itself. This can lead to greater tooth loss and changing of the shape of the jaw.
The Dental Implant process
A dental implant begins with an anchor, inserted into the jaw and gums, which stimulates the tissues and activates osteoclasts. These tissue bond and grow to encompass the implant, creating a prosthetic root. This process is known as osseointegration, and requires a recovery period after the procedure. The recovery time will depend on the patient’s whole health; their health history, recent history of infections, disease, and lifestyle.
What kind of dentures are available with implant assistance?
There are predominantly two schools of implant overdentures, and a hybrid of the two available. The first is an implant retained overdenture, where the dentures can be removed as needed for cleaning and maintenance. You may have heard these called “snap-on” dentures, and they are prized for hygiene and cost. The process usually requires fewer implants and allow greater control for the patient when cleaning.
The more permanent option is an implant supported overdenture, wherein the dentures are totally affixed to the implant, and model the gumline. This procedure usually requires mire implants, but the overdentures are as good a quality as your natural teeth; and you care for them the same way.
How long do overdentures last?
Overdentures can last the entire patient’s lifetime, if cared for properly and high quality materials are selected. For instance, an implant retained overdenture may be ideal in the short run. The patient wants the cheaper option, and dentures are a new experience. However, if the implant is used for the next 30 years, the cost difference is drastically reduced when comparing implant supported vs. implant retained.
Are Overdentures right for you?
Begin by discussing your health history with your dentist, then request a recent x ray to assess the health of your jaw as it is. Ask about what materials are popular and available for the construction of your new overdentures. Be sure to ask your dentist or periodontist about the costs and the durability of each individual option. Then you can compare the cost overtime as you decide which tooth replacement option is going to make you smile.