Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
Overdenture, çene kemiğine yerleştirilen implantlardan veya ağızda kalmış ancak üzeri tedavi edilerek küçültülmüş doğal diş köklerinden destek alınarak hazırlanan hareketli protez türüdür. Özellikle alt çenede tam dişsizlik yaşayan hastaların en büyük şikayeti olan “protezin oynaması ve vuruk yapması” sorununu kökten çözen son derece güvenilir bir sistemdir.
Why Are Overdentures Needed?
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Severe Bone Loss: In cases where the jawbone has flattened to the point where it cannot support a traditional removable denture, the denture requires a foundation for retention.
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Comfort and Chewing Power: Implant-supported prostheses do not cause sore spots and significantly increase chewing capacity because they rest on implants anchored directly to the bone, rather than on the gum tissue.
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Psychological Comfort: The fear of the prosthesis falling out or shifting is completely eliminated, and the individual’s self-confidence increases.
How does the treatment process proceed?
Typically, two implants are surgically placed in the lower jaw, while two to four are placed in the upper jaw, depending on the bone structure. Once osseointegration is complete (approximately 2–3 months later), ball-shaped (Locator) or bar-type attachment components are screwed onto the implants. The prosthesis is then locked in place by fitting the sockets located on its underside onto these attachments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove overdentures myself?
Yes, an overdenture is a removable prosthesis. Its difference from fixed prostheses (such as “All-on-X”) is that the patient can easily detach the prosthesis from the locking system for daily cleaning and then reattach it.
Is a large amount of bone required for implant placement?
Since overdenture systems are typically placed in the anterior region of the jaw and involve fewer implants than the standard number (for example, two in the lower jaw), they can be easily implemented even in cases of significant bone loss.
Conclusion
Overdenture systems are a preventive treatment concept frequently recommended by clinicians that dramatically improves the quality of life, chewing performance, and social self-confidence of patients who require removable dentures.