December 2019 - Dr. Rick Lane

My dentist mentioned implant overdentures to me years ago and I’m not sure I fully understand how they work. I decided to get dentures several years ago and I am unhappy with them. It’s time to replace them, so I decided to look into other alternatives. But, I don’t really know what to do next.

I could go back into the dentist that did my dentures. But, I didn’t get the impression that he does overdentures. I think he specialized in dentures, not other alternatives. I understand that dental implants are used to help stabilize the denture. What I can’t figure out is if they are permanent or not? When I have been researching dentists in my area that offer them, it seems like every one of them has a different approach. I am feeling confused and I’m not sure how they differ so much. Do you have any tips as I continue my research?

-Cynthia in Ohio

Cynthia,

Tooth replacement options can be confusing to understand. There are many things to consider. And you are correct, each dentist’s approach will differ. The best thing to do is find the best implant dentist in your area who you can trust. Find one that offers many solutions to replace missing teeth. Then, together they can help you determine what the best option is for your individualized needs.

It is in your best interest to research different dentists versus trying to find one that offers overdentures. You want to find a dentist that is extremely familiar with many treatment options and has experience placing successful cases.

In regard to your question regarding whether or not implant-supported overdentures are permanent, the answer is yes. The dental implants are surgically implanted into your jawbone. They integrate with the bone to gain stability and the denture is attached to them. This will give you so much more support and confidence than what you have had in a removable denture.

Then, the confusing part is that there are many different types of overdentures out there. Some can be removed for cleaning, and other types remain in place all the time.

Example of a snap-on denture

Snap-on dentures do exactly what is sounds like they do. They snap into an appliance that is held in place by dental implants. The connectors attach to each other to provide stability. But, they can be removed at home. This version is also known as “gum-supported or implant-retained” because that is where most of your biting force will be coming from.

Now, the number of dental implants used varies as well. An overdenture can be supported with only two implants on each arch. This is an affordable approach. However, the more dental implants that are used will make the denture more secure. As a general rule of thumb, the more implants that are used will mean they feel more like your natural teeth.

There is also a version that is bar-retained. This “implant-supported” option uses a metal bar that spreads across the arch. In this option, the bar is where the strength comes from. Four or six dental implants are usually used in this option, which makes it a more expensive. The appliance will be removable. But, the bar will remain in place.

Essentially, the price goes up the more dental implants that are used. However, the more implants that are used, the stronger your appliance will be.

Focus your energy on finding an implant dentist that you can trust. Not just any general dentist will be able to provide these services to you since it takes extensive training beyond dental school to be successful with dental implants. Once you have found a dentist you can trust, together you can talk through the pros and cons to figure out the best option for your needs and budget.

Thank you for your question. Hopefully, this will be helpful as you consider your next steps, as well as helping others who are considering overdentures.

This post is sponsored by Petaluma dentist Dr. Rick Lane.

When I stop and think about how much money I’ve spent on dental work, including dental bridges and porcelain crowns, I can’t believe it. Over the last 20 years or so, I’ve probably spent over $50,000! I have been pretty happy with the look of my smile, which I feel good about. But, now I’m considering replacing a lot of that dental work with dental implants. It will end up being a total of eight dental implants, four on top and four on the bottom. I decided to use some financing options for the top four, which will be somewhere in the ballpark of $25,000. Now, I keep putting off the surgery because I’m afraid the dental implants will look fake.

Like I said earlier, I have invested a lot of money in my teeth. But, everything looks nice and natural. I am feeling hesitant about how the dental implants will look. I still have to come up with more money so all the surgery can be done at the same time. The doctor I have met with hasn’t won me over. Maybe that’s why I am feeling apprehensive.

Is it asking too much to have natural-looking dental implants? How will the care be for them? I keep up with excellent care of my dental bridges. I floss them at least one or two times each day. Will the dental implants hold up? Are they difficult to maintain?

As you can see, I’m still on the fence about the whole thing. The Clear Choice center told me that it would all be done in six months. Then, at the next visit, they said it would take a year for the entire process. When I questioned the doctor, he said that I must have misunderstood. So, as you can see, I’m starting to question my trust in him and the whole thing.

Please let me know your thoughts if you have a minute.

Thank you!

~ Sarah in Florida

Sarah,

The single most important thing when selecting an implant dentist is trust. The successful placement of dental implants, whether you go to a Clear Choice center or another practice, requires extensive skill and expertise. The skills are not taught in dental school and require a lot of training beyond dental school. The Clear Choice dentist may be more than capable. But, if you are questioning whether you trust him or not and have some concerns, there is likely a reason for it. Listen to your gut with this instance. Getting a second opinion won’t hurt. And then you will have a point of comparison.

Also, if you haven’t got the surgery yet, you are not obligated to move forward. You can find someone that may be a better fit for you. You have every right to change your mind, especially with such a large investment.

Clear Choice Dental Implants Centers have a reputation of pushing the “All on Four” treatment plan. You didn’t mention whether or not if that was the case. But, you did mention four dental implants on top and four on the bottom. So, it is likely a possibility. All on Four dental implants aren’t for everyone. Therefore, that may be further justification for you to go ahead and get a second opinion.

Don’t get me wrong. Many patients have had a successful experience with Clear Choice. But, there are many cases where their sales tactics, motives and ultimately, the end result haven’t been what was expected. That does make one wonder about their ethics.

Trust is key. So, check out other reputable implant dentists in your area. Often, you can go in for a complimentary consultation to see what they say. Don’t necessarily tell them why you are having doubts. But, ask them for their independent recommendations for your case and see how it compares.

Lastly, you had several questions about how dental implants will look and how to care for them. When dental implants are done by an excellent implant dentist, they can be made to be beautiful and lifelike. From a conversational distance, no one will know you have had any dental work done. As for caring for them afterward, you will need to keep them clean. Specific care instructions should be answered and provided by the implant dentist because it will depend on the technique used and how they were placed.

You deserve to have a smile you love. And when dental implants are done correctly, they are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth.

Thank you for your question. Listen to your gut and continue your search for the best implant dentist for your needs.

This post is sponsored by Petaluma dentist Dr. Rick Lane.

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Archives for December 2019