Support System of Overdentures: Roots and Implants

The overdenture is an outstanding mode of treatment. The teeth that are used for support and retention are of critical importance for the maintenance of health. A breakdown in their structure or a breakdown in their periodontal support immediately negates an overdenture concept. If we are to succeed, we must control the factor that jeopardise success. If we control caries by home care and chemical protection, and if we select our patients wisely, we can be relatively assured of a successful outcome for many years with overdentures. The success of the overdenture depends on every step of the treatment plan from beginning to end. Judicious patient selection, thorough examination, accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning and laboratory procedures are the foundation of preventive prosthodontics. To conclude it would not be a repetition to say that over denture is a preventive dentistry concept which has been brought into prosthodontics, and the alveolar bone with its overlying mucosa was never intended to receive the full force of a complete denture.