What is a Bar-Retained Overdenture?
For people that have multiple missing teeth, finding a solution that feels natural, stays in place, and promotes long-term oral health can feel like a challenge. One popular option that is a bar-retained overdenture. Bar-retained overdentures offer a stable, functional, and long-lasting alternative to traditional dentures. If your dentist has recommended a bar-retained overdenture, read on to learn more about them so that you can decide if they are right for you.
What Is a Bar-Retained Overdenture?
A bar-retained overdenture, sometimes called an implant-supported overdenture, is a removable denture that connects to a bar placed in the mouth. The bar is attached to dental implants which are surgically placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal and integrate with the bone. Once healing is complete, a custom-made bar is fitted to the implants, and the denture securely clips onto that bar. The result is a denture that doesn’t slip or move the way traditional dentures often can. It’s secure, functional, and much more comfortable for most patients.
Why Choose a Bar-Retained Overdenture?
There are several reasons a dentist may recommend bar-retained overdentures over traditional dentures:
- Better Stability: Because the denture is supported by implants, you won’t have to worry about your teeth shifting or moving when you eat or speak. This added stability can make a huge difference in daily comfort and confidence.
- More Comfort: Traditional dentures often cause sore spots or irritation because of the way they sit on the gums. Bar-retained overdentures reduce this pressure and are typically much more comfortable to wear.
- Supports Bone Health: When teeth are lost, the jawbone begins to deteriorate over time. Dental implants help prevent this by stimulating the bone, just like natural tooth roots do. This helps preserve the shape and strength of your jaw.
- Natural Look and Feel: Bar-retained over dentures are custom-designed to mimic natural teeth in both appearance and function. Most patients feel they can smile, eat, and talk more naturally with bar-retained overdentures compared to traditional ones.
- Easier Cleaning: Although they feel more permanent than traditional dentures, bar-retained overdentures are still removable. This makes them easier to clean, especially for patients who have limited hand strength or mobility.
- Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care and routine dental visits, bar-retained overdentures can last many years. They don’t need to be refitted as often as traditional dentures, making them a reliable, long-term investment in your oral health.
What’s Involved in the Procedure?
Getting a bar-retained overdenture typically involves several steps. It begins with consultation and Planning. Your dentist will assess your oral health and plan where the implants should be placed to ensure maximum effect of the prosthetics. Then, you will have the implant surgery where dental implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone. This is followed by healing time which usually lasts a few months. This time allows the implant to fuse with the jawbone and form the foundation the bar-retained overdenture needs. Next a custom bar is made and attached to the implants and finally the denture is crafted and clipped securely onto the bar.
What Does This Mean for Me?
If you’re looking for a secure, comfortable, and durable solution to missing teeth, a bar-retained overdenture might be the right choice. Speak with your dentist about whether it’s a good fit for your needs.