An introduction to overdentures and immediate denture services, a stable and long-lasting alternative
At Wes Park Family Dentistry, we understand that tooth loss is often accompanied by bone loss. This destructive, progressive process can make the cosmetic and functional complications of tooth loss far worse by wearing down the supportive bone in the jaw. Bone resorption can be avoided, however, with prompt tooth replacement. And, due to the unique design of dental implants, dentures supported by these cylindrical “artificial tooth roots” present an optimal way to complete the smile and sustain the health, density, and strength of the supportive tissues. Overdentures and immediate dentures at our office in Perry, Georgia, maybe in your future if you are missing many or all of your teeth.
What are implants?
We referred above to implants as “cylindrical artificial tooth roots.” And, yes, this essentially gets to the heart of how they work and function. These small posts are expertly inserted into the jawbone. They are made from special materials designed to fuse or integrate with the surrounding bone. Once they have joined successfully to the rest of the jaw, implants can function like tooth roots to hold the replacement teeth in place. For this reason, implants are considered a highly stable and long-lasting alternative to options such as conventional removable dentures.
How do overdentures “use” implants?
While one implant is inserted to support or retain a single replacement tooth (dental crown), as few as two to four implants can be strategically positioned to stabilize several teeth in a bridge or denture. As its name suggests, these dentures go over the implants. Once connected to the implants, the overdenture does not go anywhere as the implants are fixed in the jaw.
How do overdentures compare to conventional dentures?
There are fundamental differences in how these dentures are designed. Notably, the traditional denture is designed to conform to the roof/palate or floor of the mouth. So, it is critical that the appliance fits securely. The denture depends on suction in the mouth to hold it in place. For this reason, ill-fitting dentures tend to become loose, slip around in the mouth, and cause sores and other discomfort. These and other complications are largely avoided with implant-retained dentures because they are connected to the jawbone through the implants. This feature also helps to keep the bone strong and prevent bone loss that can alter how formerly well-fitting conventional dentures conform to tissues in the jaw. To maintain a proper fit, these dentures regularly require adjustments (such as relining and rebasing services).
How do overdentures prevent bone loss?
Any tissue that does not “get used” tends to shrink. Consider how you lose muscle after a period of sickness or inactivity. The same type of process occurs here. When your jawbone does not get the stimulation it needs from the teeth and actions like grinding down food, its height and width gradually shrink. This can worsen existing difficulties with eating and speech and can alter the shape and contours of your face, resulting in a collapsed or “aged” appearance. With implants, the jawbone remains “stimulated”; it continues to benefit from the chewing activity and other functions of the attached denture teeth.
And these teeth can be placed immediately?
It’s possible! Wes Park Family Dentistry is pleased to offer immediate denture services. As appropriate, Dr. Westmoreland may extract any failing teeth, insert implants, and place a provisional denture all in one appointment. The permanent denture is later placed after the implants and tissues have healed. Schedule a consultation to learn more about this process and potential options to replace teeth, “retrofit,” or upgrade existing dentures. Call (478) 488-3561 to speak with a member of our team in Perry, GA today.

Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.