Snap-in dentures may be a good option for patients who are missing all of their teeth on the top or bottom jaw. This may be caused by an injury or another type of dental issue. Historically, patients who were missing all of their teeth would use traditional dentures. Unfortunately, there are significant limitations and challenges associated with dentures such as having a poor fit, easily slipping out of place, dietary restrictions, and tedious process for cleaning. Snap-in dentures are incredibly stable and resolve many of these issues.
The process for a snap-in denture begins with the placement of dental implants. The implant is a screw-like device which the dentist surgically places into the jawbone. Once the implant heals, it is able to hold the snap-in denture in place. Two to four implants are strategically placed in the jaw and used to support the dentures. The number of implants used as the base of the restoration will vary based on the patient’s budget and unique needs.
Following the placement of the implants, the mouth will need time to heal. During the natural healing process, the implants actually fuse to the jawbone. Once healed, an implant-retained or implant-supported denture can be connected. The prosthetic may also be called an overdenture. Various methods can be used to create an overdenture. It is possible for the overdenture to be removable, or it may be permanently fixed in place. Some overdenture devices must be removed for cleaning. A portion of the dental implant will exist above the gums, where the dentures are connected.
Snap-in Denture Benefits
There are numerous benefits when comparing snap-in dentures and traditional dentures. Key benefits of snap-in dentures are listed below:
- Snap-in dentures are secure and stable. While traditional dentures must be removed daily for cleaning, snap-in dentures are securely attached and cleaned just like the natural teeth. Snap-in dentures also do not slip out of place when eating or speaking.
- Patients can consume the foods they love without dietary restrictions or the requirement to remove the dentures for eating.
- Snap-in dentures are more comfortable and fit securely without rubbing the gums. Traditional dentures rest on top of the gums and can cause significant discomfort.
- Snap-in dentures are more natural in their appearance.
- Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that commonly occurs with traditional dentures.
Challenges
Snap-in dentures offer many benefits to patients. Below are some of the challenges and limitations associated with snap-in dentures.
- Implants must be surgically placed, and a local anesthetic is used for the procedure. The surgery has a high success rate with a low risk for complications. Because of the surgical element, the mouth must heal which can take a few months.
- Snap-in dentures are more expensive than traditional dentures and the procedure is generally not covered by dental insurance.
- Additional procedures such as bone grafting may be needed in order to support the implants. These procedures increase the cost of treatment and can make the overall treatment time longer.
- Over time, snap-in dentures will naturally experience wear and tear. They will eventually need to be replaced. The attachments can also come loose and require tightening or adjustments.
Cost
Patients must determine if their insurance covers any portion of the snap-in denture procedure. The cost for treatment is an important consideration and can impact the patient’s treatment decisions. Many patients have a limited or set budget. Patients must work directly with the provider to determine the cost of treatment. Snap-in dentures which contain two implants cost an average of $6,000. This cost includes the implants and denture. The cost will vary based on the number of implants used and other specifics related to the patient.
Snap-in Denture Care
In order to preserve the dentures, it is critical for patients to be diligent in caring for the dentures. Properly caring for dentures ensures they last and helps minimize damage. Prior to the snap-in dentures being screwed into place, it is important for patients to brush the gums, tongue, and the roof of the mouth. This should be completed daily with a soft-bristled brush. Once the dentures are in place, they should be rinsed and brushed to remove food and debris which accumulates throughout the day. A nonabrasive cleaner should be used to gently remove particles from the dentures. In order to protect the dentures when they are not being worn, they should be kept in a safe area and placed in water.
Fixed and Removable Snap-in Dentures
Snap-in dentures can either be fixed or removable. Fixed dentures cannot be removed and are securely attached in place. As the name implies, removable snap-in dentures can be removed. The patient’s budget and individual needs will help determine which type of dentures should be used. Below are a few of the key differences between fixed and removable snap-in dentures:
- Removable or implant-supported dentures are intended to be removed. In most cases, the dentures are removed nightly for cleaning. Fixed dentures are more permanent and require a dentist for removal. Cleaning fixed dentures is similar to cleaning the natural teeth as they remain in the mouth.
- Removable dentures are more likely to slip out of place while fixed dentures are securely attached to the jawbone by the implants.
- Fixed dentures typically require the use of more implants. As a result, the treatment cost is typically higher. In addition, fixed dentures may require an additional attachment bar which holds the dentures in place.
Procedure
The procedure for snap-in dentures is relatively long and requires adequate healing time for the mouth. The first step of the procedure involves the dentist surgically placing the implants. After the mouth heals for about 2 to 6 months, the jawbone fuses to the implants and forms a strong base. The patient may require an additional procedure for uncovering the implants and extensions will be attached. A temporary healing cap is the foundation for the artificial teeth. The implant system may also already contain the extension. The connecting device is then tightened down, which is used to securely hold the dentures in place. During the final step of the procedure, the dentures are created and attached to the connecting device.
Candidates for Snap-in Dentures
If a patient is missing most or all of their teeth in the upper or lower jaw, they are likely a good candidate for snap-in dentures. The teeth may be missing from an injury, accident, decay, or gum disease. The snap-in dentures are often a good option for patients who want to avoid conventional dentures because of the challenges or limitations. Traditional dentures may also require significant diet modifications which patients may want to avoid.
Contact the office today for an appointment to determine if you may be a good candidate for snap-in dentures. This solution is a more permanent tooth-replacement option that helps patients restore their smile.