Implant overdentures can secure a lower denture to implants to improve stability.
They are still removable but are firmly attached so that patients can eat and speak without fear of their denture moving out of place. They can allow patients to eat almonds and popcorn and even bite into a crunchy apple–things that are very difficult to do with a traditional denture.
An implant overdenture is usually supported by 2-4 implants. The denture contains snaps that attach to the implants with a “click.” The snaps come in varying strengths, which we can easily exchange to get just the right amount of retention–enough that the denture will not dislodge when eating or speaking, but is still removable by the patient so that hygiene can easily be completed.
Like the fixed bridge option, if a patient has natural teeth remaining when the implants are placed, their denture will be delivered the same day the natural teeth are removed. Once again, patients never have to go without teeth. Unlike the fixed bridge, an implant overdenture cannot be attached to the implants right away. Instead, the denture will be worn like a traditional denture until the implants have had time to heal and integrate with the bone for 2-6 months. This is because the implants are not splinted together with a rigid bar, and the movements of the overdenture on individual implants will prevent the implants from integrating into the bone if they are attached to the overdenture too quickly.
How Implant Overdentures Compare To Traditional Dentures
For patients who have worn a traditional denture, the difference an implant overdenture makes is immediate and significant. Traditional dentures rely on suction and adhesive to stay in place, which is rarely fully reliable and often becomes less effective as the jawbone gradually changes shape over time. Implant overdentures eliminate that uncertainty entirely. Because the denture snaps securely onto implants that are anchored directly in the bone, there is no slipping, no shifting, and no need for messy adhesives.
Beyond stability, implant overdentures offer meaningful improvements in several areas that matter most to patients:
Are You A Candidate For Implant Overdentures?
Most patients who currently wear a lower denture or are facing the loss of their remaining lower teeth are potential candidates for implant overdentures. A thorough evaluation at Legacy Dental will help determine whether your bone volume and overall oral health support implant placement. Our 3D CBCT scanner gives Dr. Semerad and Dr. Larsen a precise, three-dimensional view of your jawbone, allowing them to assess the ideal implant positions and plan your treatment with complete confidence before a single step of the procedure begins.
Patients who have experienced significant bone loss may require a bone grafting procedure prior to implant placement. This is a common and well-established part of the implant process, and our team will walk you through every option clearly so you can make the most informed decision possible.
Taking The Next Step
Implant overdentures represent one of the most impactful improvements a denture wearer can make for their quality of life, comfort, and long-term oral health. At Legacy Dental, Dr. Semerad and Dr. Larsen approach every implant overdenture case with the precision, care, and patient-centered philosophy that defines everything we do. Flexible financing through CareCredit and Sunbit makes this life-changing treatment more accessible than ever for patients throughout Omaha, NE.
If you are ready to stop worrying about your denture and start enjoying the confidence of a smile that stays exactly where it belongs, call our office or book your consultation online today. We look forward to helping you take that next step.
