A bar overdenture is a type of removable denture that’s supported and stabilized by dental implants through a custom-made metal bar. It’s a great solution for people who have lost all their teeth (complete edentulism), especially in the lower jaw where standard dentures tend to move around the most.
The bar itself is the connecting element—it’s fixed to implants and allows the denture to clip on and off as needed. Compared to traditional dentures, bar overdentures provide a much better fit and feel more like natural teeth.
This treatment option is recognized by dental professionals as an effective middle ground between fixed implant bridges and traditional dentures (American College of Prosthodontists).
How a Bar Overdenture Works
So, how does it all come together?
- First, 2 to 6 dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Once healed, a custom bar is attached to the implants. This can be secured with screws or cement.
- The denture then clips onto the bar using various attachments like Locator®, Hader, or Dolder systems.
These attachments provide retention and make sure the denture stays in place while still being removable. For patients, this means no slipping during meals or conversations—and easy cleaning at home.
According to Colgate Professional, implant-retained overdentures can significantly improve chewing function, speech clarity, and overall confidence.
Benefits of Bar Overdentures
Alright, let’s dive into why bar overdentures are such a great option:
- Excellent retention
You know how regular dentures can slip around when you eat or talk? Bar overdentures solve that problem! The implants and bar keep the denture firmly in place, so you won’t have to worry about them shifting or falling out. It’s a huge improvement in stability, and it makes daily life way easier. - Comfortable chewing and speaking
Imagine being able to eat your favorite foods or chat with friends without worrying about your dentures moving. Because the bar holds the denture tightly, it feels much more natural—like real teeth. You can chew, speak, and laugh with confidence. - Easy maintenance
One of the great things about bar overdentures is that you can remove them for cleaning. Just take them out, rinse them off, and clean your gums properly. This keeps everything fresh and healthy. It’s a lot easier to take care of compared to fixed solutions that you can’t remove yourself. - Great for bone loss cases
If you’ve lost bone in your jaw, it can be tricky to get fixed implants or bridges. But bar overdentures are a fantastic solution! The implants help stimulate the jawbone, keeping it healthy even if there’s been some bone loss. It’s a much better option for those who might not be able to get traditional implants. - Cost-effective alternative
Bar overdentures are a great middle-ground between traditional dentures and full-arch fixed bridges. They’re a lot more affordable than full-arch bridges, but they offer way more stability and function than regular dentures. It’s a smart choice if you’re looking for something that works without breaking the bank.
Bonus benefit: Bone preservation and facial structure
Here’s something people don’t often think about: bar overdentures actually help preserve the bone in your jaw. When implants are placed, they stimulate the bone, just like natural tooth roots do. This prevents bone loss, which can happen when you don’t have teeth. Over time, this helps maintain your facial structure and keeps you looking younger. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the sunken-in look that can come with missing teeth. It’s a nice bonus for your appearance!
And one more thing—patients who choose bar overdentures often feel way more confident when they’re out in social situations. No more worrying about dentures clicking or slipping. You can focus on enjoying your time with others, knowing your dentures are secure.
Bar Types and Attachment Options
When it comes to bar overdentures, there are a few different bar designs and attachment options to choose from. At BioDent, we create fully customized solutions based on each person’s unique needs, jaw structure, and implant system. Here’s a rundown of the most common options:
Common Bar Designs:
- CAD/CAM milled bars
These bars are made using a computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) process. In simple terms, they’re precision-milled to fit your mouth perfectly. This gives you the best possible fit and comfort, as the bar is custom-made specifically for you. - Hader bar
This is a classic option and has a U-shape design. It’s known for being super reliable and stable. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something simple, effective, and trusted in the dental world. - Dolder bar
This one’s known for its excellent retention, which means your denture stays secure without slipping. The Dolder bar comes in round or oval shapes, depending on what suits your needs and mouth best. - Egg-shaped bar
This design has a softer, more gentle fit, making it more comfortable on the soft tissues in your mouth. If you have sensitive gums or just want something more forgiving, this might be the perfect option for you.
Attachment Options:
There are different ways to attach your overdenture to the bar, and it all depends on what works best for you:
- Clips (nylon or metal)
Clips are simple and effective. They can be made from nylon or metal, and they keep the denture securely attached to the bar. The choice of material usually depends on comfort and durability. - Locator® attachments
These attachments are pretty popular because they help make the denture easier to snap into place. They’re designed for a secure fit but still allow you to easily remove the denture when you need to clean it. - Ball abutments
Ball abutments are small, round attachments that help hold the denture in place. They’re durable and easy to use, offering a good balance of comfort and functionality. - Magnetic attachments
Magnetic attachments are great if you have limited hand dexterity or find it hard to remove your dentures. The magnets make it super easy to pop the denture on and off, so you don’t have to struggle with clips or other attachments.
Materials We Use:
At BioDent, we use high-quality materials to ensure your bar overdenture is strong, durable, and comfortable. Here are the main materials we work with:
- Titanium alloys
Titanium is lightweight, strong, and highly biocompatible, meaning it works well with your body and won’t cause irritation. It’s a great option for bars that need to be both durable and comfortable. - Cobalt-chrome
This material is incredibly durable, so it’s often used when strength and longevity are important. Cobalt-chrome is tough and resistant to wear, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting overdentures. - Zirconia
Zirconia is used in cases where appearance is really important. It’s a highly aesthetic material that can match the natural color of your teeth, giving you a beautiful smile while still being strong and functional.
Choosing the Right Bar and Attachment System
The best bar and attachment system for you depends on your anatomy, preferences, and budget. For instance, if you have limited hand strength or dexterity, magnetic attachments are a fantastic option because they make the denture easy to remove and put back on. But if you need maximum durability and want something that lasts a long time, a precision-milled CAD/CAM bar might be the best choice for you. It’s all about finding what fits your needs!
The great thing about bar overdentures is that everything is customizable. Whether you need a stronger bar for chewing, a more comfortable fit, or something that looks really natural, there’s an option that works for you.
BioDent’s CAD/CAM Bar Overdenture Workflow
At BioDent, we use advanced CAD/CAM technology to create high-precision bar overdenture systems that fit perfectly with your patient’s unique anatomy. Here’s how our process works step-by-step:
- We receive the scan or master model — either an STL file from an intraoral scanner or a physical impression.
- Our technicians design the bar digitally using industry-standard software like Exocad. We customize the bar for your chosen implant system and prosthetic plan.
- The bar is milled from solid titanium or other biocompatible materials using 5-axis milling machines for unmatched precision.
- We perform a test fit and adjustments — the bar is checked for perfect seating and retention.
- The denture is created to fit over the bar using your chosen attachments.
- We ship the final product to your clinic, ready for try-in or delivery.
This streamlined process allows for quick turnaround and minimizes chair time. More importantly, it gives your patients a stable, aesthetic solution that’s built to last. According to the Journal of Prosthodontics, CAD/CAM bars improve long-term fit and reduce complications compared to traditional techniques.
What makes BioDent stand out is our dedication to quality at every step. We don’t just fabricate a bar—we engineer a long-term solution tailored to the individual. Each CAD/CAM bar is designed by experienced dental technicians who work closely with your clinical team to ensure ideal fit and function. From the initial digital design to the final prosthesis, BioDent uses only high-grade materials and validated implant system libraries to deliver restorations that meet the highest clinical standards.
Why Dentists Choose BioDent for Bar Overdentures
BioDent isn’t just another dental lab — we’re your reliable partner for full-arch solutions. Here’s why so many clinicians across the U.S. trust us with their bar overdenture cases:
- We work with all implant systems — from Straumann and Nobel Biocare to Zimmer, Megagen, and more.
- Customized case planning — each design is tailored to your clinical needs and patient anatomy.
- Micron-level precision — thanks to our CAD/CAM workflows, every bar fits like a glove.
- Aesthetic and functional excellence — we focus on both visual outcome and mechanical performance.
- Fast turnaround and full support — we know your time matters, so we keep things quick and responsive.
BioDent isn’t just a lab—it’s a clinical partner. Our team is available to consult on complex cases, provide design feedback, and even suggest alternate attachment options based on your patient’s needs. We understand that implant-supported prosthetics require careful planning and flawless execution. That’s why every order is treated like a collaborative project. We’re here to support you from scan to seat, ensuring your patients get both the comfort and the confidence they deserve.
Ordering Bar Overdentures from BioDent
Ordering a bar overdenture from BioDent is quick and easy. Here’s what to do:
- Send us your STL file or master model.
- Select the type of bar and attachment system that fits your treatment plan (we can help with this if needed).
- Collaborate with our technical team — we’ll review the case with you and confirm the design before production.
- Receive your complete package: custom bar + prosthesis, ready for delivery or try-in.
To make the ordering process even easier, BioDent offers digital communication channels for fast design approval and real-time feedback. If you’re working with a new implant system or unsure about the attachment mechanism, our support team is ready to assist. We also offer trial fits or prototype bars for more complex cases before the final prosthesis is fabricated. Whether you’re ordering a full prosthetic solution or just the bar, we’re committed to delivering efficient, accurate, and stress-free service.
