Do I Need to Brush and Floss My Overdenture?
Glendale, AZ
Overdentures in Glendale provided by Dr. Michael Allard
at Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Replacing missing teeth is important for restoring the functions of your mouth. Today, there are many ways that your teeth can be replaced. Dental implants are one of the most popular choices, utilizing small, titanium posts to provide support for your replacement teeth. Your jawbone fuses to these posts, stabilizing them so that they can hold your new teeth securely in place. There are many different types of implant solutions, including implant overdentures. Taking care of your overdentures is important for ensuring optimal functionality. Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can help.
 Types of Overdentures
There are several different types of overdentures. These include
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Fixed, implant supported overdentures. These are replacement teeth that are secured into place on the implant posts with small screws. Your teeth are designed to remain in place at all times. The only time they are removed is when maintenance is needed. Your replacement teeth are supported by the implant posts and the jawbone underneath.
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Implant retained overdentures. This type of denture snaps into place on the implant posts, which have small balls on the end of them. Your teeth can be removed and replaced as needed, including for proper care. The dental restorations are supported mainly by your gums, while the implants help to hold your teeth securely in place.
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Bar-retained overdentures. This type of dental restoration involves the use of a titanium bar that is attached to your implants. Your teeth, which are removable, clip into place on the bar. Bar-retained overdentures may be used when your jawbone is too weak for a regular implant supported denture, allowing you to avoid the need for a bone graft. |
The Importance of Overdenture Care
Taking proper care of your overdentures is essential for ensuring optimal functionality and a healthy mouth. Even though your teeth are fake, they can still collect plaque and bacteria that can cause gum disease. If gum disease does develop, getting treatment right away is crucial. Without treatment, gum disease can continue to worsen, and bacteria can travel below your gums. When this happens, the bacteria begin attacking your jawbone, which leads to bone loss. As your bone weakens, your implants can become loose and unstable. You may even be faced with implant failure.
Do Overdentures Need to Be Brushed and Flossed?
Fixed, implant supported overdentures can be brushed and flossed exactly like your real teeth. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once daily. This will help to keep your replacement teeth clean and your smile beautiful. These habits also help to ensure optimal oral health.
Removable overdentures require slightly different care. Every night, they should be removed to be properly cleaned. Your teeth should then be soaked overnight while you sleep. After cleaning your removable overdentures, you should take care to clean your gums and the rest of your mouth. Carefully clean around your implant posts and under the bar.
Taking proper care of your overdentures is essential for ensuring that your mouth remains healthy and that your replacement teeth can function properly. Call Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at (623) 738-2564 today if you have any questions or concerns. |
