Overdentures for acquired and congenital anomalies: 1. Complete dentures

Overdenture principles can be applied to dentitions that are relatively complete without preparation or alteration of the existing teeth. Such overdentures may cover the traditional denture-bearing tissues as well as the unaltered remaining teeth. The primary advantages derived are reversibility, simplicity, and cost effectiveness. The primary indications are restoration of congenital and acquired anomalies. A detailed clinical and laboratory technique for fabricating these overdentures is presented. Effective restorations require care and attention to detail using the principles of conventional prosthodontics. No special equipment or material is needed. Two patient histories are presented, illustrating use of the technique.