Implant Supported Overdentures

The implant overdenture is an especially attractive treatment because of its relative simplicity, minimal invasiveness, and economy. Existing complete dentures can be converted for many patients and maintain facial support with the denture flange when moderate to extreme alveolar ridge resorption is present. The implant overdenture is supported by both implant and mucosa and therefore fewer implants are necessary than for the prosthesis supported only by implant. The overdenture usually consists of two or more implants placed within alveolar bone on opposite side of the arch. Connected to the implants is an attachment device that has a corresponding coupling unit processed to the tissue surface of the complete denture. When the attachment components are appropriately connected, the complete denture is held in position on the mucosa and both mucosa and implants provide support, retention and stability. The overdenture is easily removed for hygiene.