Over dentures are simply full dentures with a very sophisticated system of supporting attachment, and are indicated when:

• There is an absence of healthy teeth above the gum line upon which to fashion a partial denture, and
• Either the roots of two or more teeth are or may be made sound (although exposed portions are unusable), or
• Dental bone implants may be utilized.

The retention device employed by an over denture is a snap or clip that has been securely bonded to the remaining roots, or implant sprues. Properly designed and fitted over dentures have far greater retention than full dentures. This is particularly important with the lower jaw, which relies entirely on gravity to hold a full denture in place. An over denture, on the other hand, uses attachments, usually snaps, which attach the denture securely to the jaw and prevent it from “floating”. As a result, when a full lower denture is indicated a dentist will usually encourage the patient to explore the use of any existing teeth, or consider dental implants, before shifting to a full “floating” lower denture.

Procedures involved in an over denture are very similar to those described for full dentures, except for the additional preparation required for the attachment.

1. Before the procedure

The dentist determines what needs to be done and prepares both himself and the patient for the coming treatment procedure.

2. Implant Placement:

The first step is installing dental implants to replace the lost tooth roots. In this case, two implants are used. Four implants may be placed in cases for added overdenture retention. Temporary dentures may be worn that enable you to eat and function like normal while waiting for the permanent overdenture to be installed.

3.Attaching the bridge to the implants

A ball or bar is then attached on top of the implants and the overdentures installed over. The ball or bar acts as a clip that enables the overdentures to snap securely in place.

4. End result :

The removable overdentures are securely clipped on top of the implant with the ball/bar giving the strength and stability that allows you to better than with conventional dentures