Overdenture
An overdenture is removable and supported by remaining teeth, roots, or dental implants for added stability.
The short answer
An overdenture is a removable prosthesis that rests on and gains support from retained tooth roots, natural teeth, or dental implants.
What is the direct answer?
The base is usually acrylic resin with artificial teeth, while attachments may connect the denture to prepared roots or implant abutments. Retained structures are examined, treated, and shaped so the prosthesis can be seated, removed, cleaned, and reviewed.
What does this question mean?
The base is usually acrylic resin with artificial teeth, while attachments may connect the denture to prepared roots or implant abutments. Retained structures are examined, treated, and shaped so the prosthesis can be seated, removed, cleaned, and reviewed.
The clinical process includes examination and imaging, treatment of remaining teeth or placement of implants when appropriate, impressions or digital scans, jaw-record measurements, a trial arrangement, fitting, and adjustment. Remove and clean the prosthesis as instructed and clean the supporting teeth, roots, or implants separately.
What can you do next?
The clinical process includes examination and imaging, treatment of remaining teeth or placement of implants when appropriate, impressions or digital scans, jaw-record measurements, a trial arrangement, fitting, and adjustment. Remove and clean the prosthesis as instructed and clean the supporting teeth, roots, or implants separately.
See a dentist if the denture causes ulceration, rocking, difficulty chewing, foul taste, bleeding around an attachment, or a loose implant or tooth. Regular reviews help assess the fit and supporting tissues.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask what will support the overdenture, which teeth or implants can be retained, how attachments are maintained, and what cleaning and relining schedule is expected.
A clinical examination can distinguish a local problem from a condition needing urgent care.
What should you ask the dentist?
Support options
Ask how the proposed steps address the cause, what alternatives exist, and how to monitor the result.
Frequently asked questions
No. It is removable, although attachments can improve retention when the supporting anatomy is suitable.
Can an overdenture be made without implants?