Over Dentures

Over dentures are simply full dentures with a very sophisticated system of supporting attachment, and are indicated when:

  • There is an absence of healthy teeth above the gum line upon which to fashion a partial denture, and
  • Either the roots of two or more teeth are or may be made sound (although exposed portions are unusable), or
  • Dental bone implants may be utilized.  

The retention device employed by an over denture is a snap or clip that has been securely bonded to the remaining roots, or implant sprues.
Properly designed and fitted over dentures have far greater retention than full dentures. This is particularly important with the lower jaw, which relies entirely on gravity to hold a full denture in place. An over denture, on the other hand, uses attachments, usually snaps, which attach the denture securely to the jaw and prevent it from "floating". As a result, when a full lower denture is indicated a dentist will usually encourage the patient to explore the use of any existing teeth, or consider dental implants, before shifting to a full "floating" lower denture.


The Denture Type mini-menu on the right may be used to explore various denture types that may be included in an individual treatment plan.  

     Denture Types

Procedures involved in an over denture are very similar to those described for full dentures, except for the additional preparation required for the attachment.

Preparation of existing teeth requires that the pulp be removed from the root canal and subsequently filled with an acrylic substrate (see Root Canal under the Treatment Menu in the right hand panel) which also securely holds the attachment device in place. Alternatively, a dental implant may be surgically installed (see Implants under Treatment Menu in the right hand panel) to accomplish the same purpose.

Please feel free to discuss any questions you may have regarding the content in our website with either Dr. Hopper or Dr. Mills. Either will be more than happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.

You may reach the clinic at 605-578-3810 or 800-641-2035, or
email us at: deadwooddental@mato.com