What does it mean?
A removable denture covering existing supporting structures.
← All explanationsOverdenture
What is an overdenture?
An overdenture is a removable denture that covers retained teeth, tooth roots or implants. These can contribute support or retention. The share of support provided by the gums depends on the design.
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Support beneath the denture
Not every denture replacing a full row of teeth rests only on the gums. Suitable teeth, roots or implant abutments may remain underneath an overdenture.
Different attachment designs
The denture may rest on prepared teeth or use additional retaining elements. The choice depends on the clinical findings and the available space.
Remove it for planned care
Both the denture and its supporting structures need cleaning and review. Retained teeth remain susceptible to decay and disease of their supporting tissues.
Read the full explanation
Support beneath the denture
Not every denture replacing a full row of teeth rests only on the gums. Suitable teeth, roots or implant abutments may remain underneath an overdenture.
Different attachment designs
The denture may rest on prepared teeth or use additional retaining elements. The choice depends on the clinical findings and the available space.
Remove it for planned care
Both the denture and its supporting structures need cleaning and review. Retained teeth remain susceptible to decay and disease of their supporting tissues.
Notes on the teaching images
- Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.
At a glance
Who might benefit?
People with selected configurations of usable teeth, roots or implants, after individual assessment.
What does follow-up include?
Care and assessment of the denture, abutments and oral tissues.
Knowledge in motion
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Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Overdenture or complete denture?
A conventional complete denture replaces all teeth in an arch without retained natural abutments. An overdenture also uses underlying retained teeth, roots or implants.
Quick answers
Is every overdenture supported by implants?
No. Natural teeth or roots can also support an overdenture. Implants are one possible foundation, not a requirement.
Is an overdenture fixed?
No. The term describes a removable restoration. Even a securely retained denture can be removed for its planned cleaning routine.
Can every remaining root be used?
No. Restorability, inflammation, periodontal support and the design need assessment. The name alone cannot establish whether a root is suitable.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
Which teeth or roots could appropriately be retained for my restoration?
Discuss your existing denture and potential supporting teeth.
Discuss tooth replacementAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Abutment
- A supporting structure contributing to support or retention of a prosthesis.
- Support
- Resistance to a denture sinking towards the tissues under load.
Make the distinction
A conventional complete denture replaces all teeth in an arch without retained natural abutments. An overdenture also uses underlying retained teeth, roots or implants.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.