For many denture wearers, lower dentures can be a daily source of frustration. Unlike upper dentures, which have the natural suction of roof of the mouth ( palate) to keep them in place, lower dentures often struggle with stability and retention due to tongue movement, lack of a strong suction effect, and gradual bone loss.
Many patients complain that their lower dentures:
Slip while eating and speaking.
Cause soreness and discomfort.
Provide inadequate chewing efficiency.
Make them feel self-conscious about their smile.
At Sakti Dental and Orthodontic Clinic, Tirunelveli, we specialize in tooth-supported overdentures, an advanced solution that offers superior stability, improved function, and greater patient satisfaction. Unlike conventional lower dentures that rest solely on the gums, overdentures utilize remaining natural tooth roots for support, significantly enhancing comfort and retention.
In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages of a tooth-supported lower overdenture and share the inspiring story of a 68-year-old woman whose life was transformed by this treatment.
Why Is a Tooth-Supported Overdenture a Better Option?
A tooth-supported overdenture is a specialized type of removable denture that is designed to fit over preserved natural tooth roots or dental implants. Instead of sitting directly on the gums like a traditional denture, an overdenture gains additional support from existing teeth, making it much more stable and functional.
Key Benefits of a Tooth-Supported Overdenture
Enhanced Stability:
The natural tooth roots help anchor the denture in place, reducing unwanted movement.
Improved Retention:
The denture doesn’t dislodge while eating or speaking, unlike a conventional lower denture.
Preserved Jawbone Health:
Retaining natural tooth roots helps maintain jawbone structure, reducing bone resorption that occurs with complete dentures.
Better Chewing Efficiency:
Stronger support allows for better biting and chewing, improving diet and digestion.
Greater Comfort:
Less gum irritation and soreness compared to traditional dentures.
Traditional Lower Denture vs. Tooth-Supported Overdenture
Many patients don’t realize the difference between a regular lower denture and a tooth-supported overdenture until they experience the limitations firsthand.
| Feature | Traditional Lower Denture | Tooth-Supported Overdenture |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Tends to move, especially while eating | Firmly stays in place |
| Retention | Relies solely on gum support | Uses natural tooth roots for extra grip |
| Bone Preservation | Leads to gradual bone loss over time | Helps maintain jawbone structure |
| Chewing Efficiency | Lower biting force, restricted food choices | Higher efficiency, better food choices |
| Comfort | May cause gum irritation and sore spots | Less pressure on gums, more comfortable |
For many patients, these differences make an overdenture the clear choice for long-term comfort and function.
Case Report: A 68-Year-Old’s Smile Transformation
At Sakti Dental and Orthodontic Clinic, Tirunelveli, we recently treated a 68-year-old woman who had struggled with a loose and uncomfortable lower denture for years. She found it difficult to chew properly, and she hesitated to smile due to fear of her denture slipping.
Treatment Plan
Preserving Her Natural Tooth Roots:
We identified that her lower canines were still strong enough to support an overdenture. Instead of removing them, we performed root canal treatment and placed metal copings over them to strengthen their structure.
Custom-Designed Overdenture:
A new lower overdenture was fabricated to fit perfectly over these prepared canines, providing superior stability and retention.
Smile Makeover & Functionality:
After fitting the overdenture, she immediately noticed the difference—it stayed firmly in place, allowing her to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
The Outcome
No more slipping dentures or discomfort.
She could eat comfortably and enjoy her favorite foods again.
Her smile looked natural and beautiful.
Her confidence was completely restored—she no longer hesitated to laugh or speak in social situations.
This case demonstrates how modern dental solutions can transform not just a patient’s smile, but their entire quality of life.
Choose Sakti Dental for a Smile That’s Secure and Confident
If you’re struggling with an unstable lower denture, it’s time to consider a tooth-supported overdenture. At Sakti Dental and Orthodontic Clinic, Tirunelveli, we have years of expertise in restoring smiles with cutting-edge dental solutions.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise in complex dental cases
Advanced technology for precise treatment
Personalized care to match your needs
Proven success in smile transformations
Don’t let an ill-fitting denture hold you back! Take control of your smile and confidence today.
Contact Us:
+91-82207-04585
Visit Us:
Sakti Dental and Orthodontic Clinic, Tirunelveli
Transform your smile, transform your life! Let us help you achieve the stability, comfort, and confidence you deserve. Book your consultation today!
Dr. Shiva Sankar is the Clinical Director and Orthodontist at Sakti Dental Clinic, Tirunelveli with over 18+ years of experience in dentistry. He is also a Professor in the Department of Orthodontics, Rajas Dental College affiliated to, Dr.MGR Medical University. Dr. Shiva Sankar frequently publishes research papers in leading scientific national and international journals.
