Snap-In Dentures
If for any reason you are missing all of you’re teeth because of an injury or dental condition, snap-in dentures are definitely worth a consideration.
More versatile and also more stable than conventional dentures, snap-in dentures are held in place by dental implants (small screws) placed with your jawbone. Generally, 2-4 implants are used per jaw, although sometimes, budget allowing, as many as 10 implants might need to be inserted. One dental implants have been placed in your jaw, an overdenture can be placed, accordingly. The overdenture maybe get fixed permanently in its place or it might be a removable kind that allows for more regular cleaning.
Benefits of Snap-In Dentures
Snap-in dentures can offer several benefits compared to conventional dentures including the following:
- More stability: Snap-in dentures are generally considered to offer more stability than conventional dentures. They are also less likely to loosen during speaking.
- Improved chewing ability: People with snap-in dentures have improved chewing ability (as compared to those with conventional dentures) and are able to eat stickier, as well as harder foods.
- Increased Comfort: Snap-in dentures generally allow for a better and more secure fit than conventional dentures, and are typically considered more comfortable due to less friction along the gums.
- More natural looking: Snap-in dentures are typically considered to look more natural than the conventional dentures.
- Better preservation of jaw bone: Prevention of further bone loss and preservation of the jawbone are considered benefits of snap-in dentures.
Possible Drawbacks of Snap-In Dentures
While there are possible benefits associated with snap-in dentures, they so have possible drawbacks, too, including the following:
- Implant surgery required: Surgery is required for the snap-in dentures. While complications are rare, it is a surgery that will require at least an local anesthetic. Surgery can be a disadvantage for some people.
- More Costly: Snap-in dentures can be more costly than conventional dentures. Insurance may or may not cover associated costs.
- Possible Need of Bone Grafting: To support implants for snap-in dentures, bone-grafting can be necessary, depending on general oral and gum health. Bone grafting often requires an extending healing time.
- Eventual Wear and Disrepair: Snap-in dentures will wear and deteriorate over time. The attachments can also loosen over time, which will require maintenance and/or tightening.
Costs Associated with Snap-In Dentures
If you are on a budget it is important to determine if your insurance will cover the costs associated with any snap-in denture treatments. Your dentist can give you a more exact quote related to your condition and needs, but generally for two implants an estimated cost is close to 6k. This can and will vary according to your needs, so make sure to consult with your dentist.
Caring For Snap-In Dentures
Proper maintenance is an important part of any denture treatment, and will help your dentures to last longer in better condition. Snap-in dentures that have not been screwed in will require brushing of the roof of the mouth, the tongue, and the gums with a soft-headed brush each day before wearing the dentures. Rinsing the dentures before any brushing will help to remove any debris or left over food particles. It is best to used a tooth brush with soft bristles combined with a nonabrasive toothpaste on the snap-in dentures when brushing. And, when not being worn the snap-in dentures should be kept in water until the next use.
Fixed vs. Removable Snap-In Dentures
Some types of snap-in dentures are fixed in place and can not be removed, while others types are actually removable. Some basic differences between the two include:
- Differences in Cleaning Approach: The removable implant-dentures are designed to be taken out every night for a full and thorough cleaning. Fixed dentures are considered permanent, and require a different cleaning process. Fixed dentures can only be removed by an oral health care professional.
- Differences in Amount of Movement: Removable implant dentures can be more likely to slip in the mouth. The fixed dentures are generally considered more stable, because of the ways in which they are attached to the implants.
- Differences in Associated Costs: Fixed dentures are more likely to cost more than the removable option.
Snap-in Dentures Treatment Procedure
The treatment procedure for snap-in dentures is generally an involved process, and it is a treatment that will take some time to heal completely. The first step in the placement of the implants into the jaw, after which usually a two to six month healing time will be required while the implants bond with the natural bone, allowing a strong and fixed anchor for the dentures.
Depending on the treatment plan, often an additional surgery can be needed to expose the implants to allow for attachment of the extensions. During this process often temporary healing caps are used to create a foundation for the eventual artificial teeth. Sometimes this step is not needed if the implant system choses already has attached extensions.
Then, once implants have been properly inserted, a connective piece will be used to hold the dentures in the proper place. And finally, a full denture set will get attached to this connective piece. Every treatment will be uniquely tailored to the patient and their specific situation and needs.
Best Candidate for Snap-in dentures
People who are missing many or all of their teeth because of an injury, and/or other dental issues can consider snap-in dentures an option, as well as anyone who hesitates over some of the known downsides of conventional dentures.
Overview
Snap-in dentures, as opposed to conventional dentures, offer a more permanent solution for missing teeth. They can help with eating, talking and smiling with confidence again. Snap-in denture treatments will require some time and financial investment, but they do offer some substantial benefits. Make sure to have a full consultation with your trusted oral health care professional to make the best decision for your needs.