Overdentures for patients who are chronically ill: a 4-year follow-up

In 12 chronically ill patients, 14 overdentures were inserted. The status of the retained teeth and the denture-supporting structures was evaluated annually for up to 4 years. The limitations and implications of this therapy as related to specific chronic diseases, medications, and patient behavior are emphasized. Based on short- and long-term follow-up, recommendations for the applicability of overdentures in systemically ill patients are offered.