In dentistry, progress often comes in small packages. Take the toothbrush, for instance. Its story began around 3500 B.C. with chew sticks—simple twigs with frayed ends that ancient Babylonians and Egyptians used to clean their teeth and freshen their breath. These sticks, often made from aromatic trees, were sufficient tools for maintaining oral hygiene at the time. Over time, chew sticks evolved into more refined toothbrushes, eventually becoming the electric, multi-function devices we use today. In much the same way, dentures have quietly transformed. For years, people relied on traditional dentures that rested on the gums—functional but far from ideal. These dentures often slip, require adhesives, and are generally uncomfortable. Just as the toothbrush has advanced, so has denture technology, moving forward in ways that have truly improved people’s lives and the implant overdenture has introduced a new era of stability and confidence.
Why Choose an Implant Overdenture?
To truly appreciate the benefits of an implant overdenture, it helps to understand what you’re leaving behind when you upgrade from traditional dentures. Conventional dentures have been the popular solution for many years, but they come with their fair share of frustrations—most of which boil down to one big flaw: they simply aren’t fixed securely in your mouth.
If you’ve worn traditional dentures, you’re probably familiar with the constant battle to keep them in place. They rely on suction and adhesives. However, despite all the sticky creams and powders, they can still slip—often at the most inconvenient times. Traditional dentures are also notorious for feeling bulky, especially the upper ones that cover the roof of your mouth. Over time, the material wears down, and you may need to visit the dentist often to get adjustments, adding yet another frustration to the list.
How Bone Loss Impacts the Fit of Your Denture
With traditional dentures, your gums bear all the pressure, often causing soreness and irritation. Unlike natural teeth, which are anchored into the jawbone, traditional dentures sit on top of the gums. This lack of direct connection means the jawbone does not receive the stimulation it needs to stay strong.
When your natural teeth are intact, pressure travels through the tooth roots every time you bite or chew and stimulates the surrounding bone, signaling your body to maintain and renew that bone. However, once a tooth is lost or extracted, this stimulation stops. Without it, the body begins a process called resorption, which starts to reabsorb the minerals in the bone and redistribute them elsewhere. Essentially, the body sees this bone as no longer needed, so it breaks it down to use those resources elsewhere.
This process starts soon after losing a tooth and can progress rapidly, leading to a shrinking and weakening jawbone. For people with traditional dentures, ongoing bone loss creates a vicious cycle—the jawbone continues to deteriorate, making it harder for dentures to fit securely, which only worsens the discomfort and instability. Over time, the lack of bone support can also change the shape of your face, giving it a sunken appearance.
How Is an Implant Overdenture Different?
Implant overdentures offer a completely different experience compared to traditional dentures—starting with how they’re built.
The “Implant” Difference
First, we begin by placing mini dental implants into your jawbone. These implants act as solid anchor points, giving the denture the stability traditional versions lack. Unlike conventional dentures, which rest on your gums, the mini implants fuse with your jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. This bond ensures they function like natural tooth roots, providing the necessary stimulation to keep your jawbone healthy and strong.
The “Overdenture” Advantage
Next, we attach the denture over the dental implants, allowing it to snap securely into place. This connection creates a stable, well-fitting denture that eliminates the shifting, slipping, and discomfort often experienced with traditional dentures. Instead of relying on adhesives or suction, implant overdentures provide a fixed and dependable fit, giving you confidence during all of your daily activities, from eating to laughing.
Want a Sleeker Option? Consider Fix-on-Six®!
While an implant overdenture does have a base, some patients may prefer an even sleeker solution. In that case, we offer the Fix-on-Six®, which we also anchor to mini dental implants. This design, often called a roundhouse, features a series of crowns crafted in a horseshoe-like structure, eliminating the need for a full base or palate. You can enjoy a more natural look and feel without the bulky material covering the roof of your mouth. Without the palate, you regain the ability to fully taste your food and experience more comfort.
Take Control of Your Smile With an Implant Overdenture
No more slipping dentures, no more irritation, and no more compromises. With implant overdentures or the Fix-on-Six® solution, you gain stability, comfort, and a natural fit that helps you return to enjoying life on your terms. Say goodbye to adhesives and constant adjustments—it’s time for a solution that truly works for you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
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In the quest for that perfect smile, many find themselves at a crossroads, weighing the traditional methods against the innovative.