Traditional (Conventional) Dentures vs. Overdentures

Dentures are vital to restoring oral function, helping individuals regain the ability to speak, chew comfortably, and smile confidently after tooth loss. As dental technology advances, patients have more options than ever regarding tooth replacement. Two of the most common choices are traditional (conventional) dentures and overdentures. 

When it comes to choosing between traditional dentures vs. overdentures, it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It's a decision that should be based on your patient's needs, including their bone health, budget, lifestyle, and long-term oral health goals. 

What Are Traditional Dentures?

Traditional dentures are fully removable prosthetic appliances that replace an arch of missing teeth, either upper, lower, or both. These dentures help restore the appearance of a natural smile while allowing the wearer to chew and speak more effectively.

Typically made from acrylic or resin materials, these full denture retention options may include metal reinforcement for added strength and durability. They are custom-crafted to fit the contours of your patient’s mouth, and their stability relies primarily on suction against the gums. Some patients may also use denture adhesives for extra grip and security.

While traditional dentures are a time-tested solution, they require proper care and periodic adjustments to maintain fit and comfort since the shape of the gums and jawbone changes over time.

Pros and Cons of Traditional Dentures

When to Recommend Traditional Dentures

• It is best for patients who are not candidates for surgery.
• Ideal for those looking for an affordable, non-invasive solution.
• Suitable for patients with significant bone loss where implants are not an option.

What Are Overdentures?

Overdentures, on the other hand, offer a more stable and comfortable solution. They are removable dentures supported either by natural tooth roots or dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, overdentures offer enhanced stability and retention by anchoring to existing structures within the mouth. This support helps reduce slippage, improves comfort, and often preserves underlying bone tissue.

There are two types of removable overdentures:

• Implant-Supported Overdentures: Secured to dental implants, implant-supported overdentures are surgically set into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots to provide a strong foundation for a better fit and function.
• Tooth-Supported Overdentures: When a few healthy natural tooth roots remain, overdentures can fit over these roots. The roots are often treated and equipped with attachments to stabilize the denture while helping maintain bone structure.

Pros and Cons of Overdentures

When to Recommend Overdentures

• For patients wanting a more stable, long-term solution
• Those who want to preserve the jawbone and prevent facial collapse
• Best dentures for missing teeth
• Candidates for dental implants who seek better comfort and functionality

Traditional Dentures vs. Overdentures: Key Differences

Upper Overdenture vs. Full Denture: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between an upper overdenture vs. a full denture is their attachment style. An upper overdenture attaches securely to dental implants placed in the jawbone for better stability and retention than a traditional full denture. Unlike full dentures, which rest directly on the gums, relying on suction and adhesives for support, overdentures snap onto implants, minimizing movement and slippage. 

Conventional Dentures vs. Overdentures: Fitting & Fabrication Process

Whether your patient needs an overdenture vs. a complete denture depends on their needs, but both types rely on precise crafting to make your patients comfortable and have beautiful dentures. 

Taking Accurate Impressions & Measurements

Accurate impressions and measurements ensure that any overdenture or full denture retention options fit and function correctly. Impression errors affect the accuracy of the final restoration and can lead to added costs, patient discomfort, and treatment delays.

To minimize these issues, follow these steps:

• Thoroughly rinse to remove debris 
• Disinfect the impression according to the manufacturer's guidelines 
• Gently dry it
• Store it properly to maintain moisture levels
• Use the correct tray size 

Focusing on precision at every stage means you can produce the optimal restorations for your patients.

Customization & Fabrication Process

Creating high-quality dentures requires paying close attention to the materials and techniques you use. Your materials should be durable, comfortable, and still look good at the final stage. At PRO-Craft, our 11-step customization and fabrication process guarantees that the final prosthesis fits precisely and mimics your patient's natural oral anatomy. 

Adjustments & Final Fitting 

Fine-tuning the fit and occlusion of a dental restoration gives your patient comfortable dentures that last a long time, so make any necessary adjustments before finalizing their dentures.

You also should make sure your patient understands how to properly care for and maintain their new dentures, including cleaning routines, storage, and the importance of follow-up visits. 

Why Choose PRO-Craft for Traditional & Overdentures?

When deciding between traditional dentures vs. overdentures, you should evaluate your patient's needs. A personalized approach ensures greater comfort, function, and patient satisfaction.

At PRO-Craft, we are unwavering in our commitment to delivering the best results to you and your patients. We focus on providing handcrafted, premium full dentures, precision-fit overdentures, expert support, and fast, reliable turnaround times, all to ensure the highest level of patient care and satisfaction. 

• Handcrafted Premium Full Dentures: Custom-fit and made from high-quality materials.
• Precision-Fit Overdentures: Engineered for superior comfort and stability.
• Expert Support: Guidance in case selection and patient education.
• Fast & Reliable Turnaround: Efficient processing to meet patient needs.

Explore our full range of denture solutions—including premium, handcrafted full dentures—to find the perfect fit for your practice and your patients.

When you request your free Accelerator Kit using the form below, you’ll be matched with a dedicated technician who personally crafts your restorations. Experience the PRO-Craft difference: trusted quality, cost savings, and real results.

Still on the fence? See what other dentists are saying on our reviews page.