Patients who are missing all of their teeth on the top or bottom jaw from an injury or dental issue may be good candidates for snap-in dentures. This form of dentures can act as a great tooth-replacement solution. Traditional dentures are associated with numerous issues and challenges. They can fit poorly, slip out of place, limit the patient’s diet, and require daily removal for cleaning. Many patients find snap-in dentures to be more stable and have fewer challenges.
Dental implants contain a screw-like device which is surgically placed into the jawbone. The implants securely hold the snap-in dentures in place. In most cases, two to four implants are strategically placed in each jaw to support the dentures. Based on the patient’s individual needs and budget, up to 10 implants may be placed.
Once the implants are placed in the jaw and have healed, an implant-retained or implant-supported denture can be set. This may also be called an overdenture. There are various methods used to create an overdenture or implants. The overdenture may be permanently fixed in place or can be removable. Some overdentures are removable in order to clean the devices. A portion of the dental implants are above the gums in order to connect the dentures.
Benefits
When comparing snap-in dentures to traditional dentures, there are numerous benefits. Some of the key benefits are summarized below.
1. Snap-in dentures are incredibly stable and secure. Traditional dentures require daily removal for cleaning purposes. Snap-in dentures also do not slip out of place when performing routine tasks such as eating or speaking.
2. The patient is able to chew and consume the foods they love. There are far fewer dietary restrictions with snap-in dentures.
3. Snap-in dentures have an improved fit and are more comfortable. They do not rest on top of the gums and there is less friction when patients wear snap-in dentures.
4. Snap-in dentures are considered to be more natural in their appearance.
5. Implants are able to stimulate the jawbone which prevents bone loss.
Challenges
While there are many benefits of snap-in dentures, there are some challenges that patients should consider as well. Below are some of the limitations and challenges associated with snap-in dentures.
1. The procedure requires patients to undergo implant surgery. The procedure has an incredibly high success rate with a very low risk for complications. However, patients will require a local anesthetic and it will take some time for the mouth to heal.
2. Snap-in dentures are typically more expensive than conventional dentures. In most cases, the procedure is not covered by dental insurance.
3. Patients may require additional procedures such as bone grafting in order to adequately support the implants. Additional procedures will make the treatment more expensive and can extend the overall treatment time.
4. Snap-in dentures will eventually require replacement. It is also possible for the attachments to eventually come loose and require adjustments or tightening.
Cost
Each patient will need to determine if their specific insurance will cover any of the costs associated with snap-in dentures. This can greatly impact a patient’s decision on treatment as they may have budget limitations. Patients should follow up with their dentist for an accurate cost estimate for treatment. On average, snap-in dentures with two implants will cost an average of $6,000. This includes the implant procedure and dentures. The cost may increase based on the number of implants used and the patient’s specific case.
Snap-in Denture Care
Regardless of what type of dentures the patient chooses for replacing their missing teeth, it is critical to properly maintain the dentures. Properly caring for the dentures helps ensure that they last and minimizes the risk of complications. When the snap-in dentures are not yet screwed into place, patients must brush the gums, tongue, and the roof of the mouth daily. Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the gum tissue prior to wearing the dentures. The dentures should be rinsed and brushed to remove any debris of food particles. Patients should use a nonabrasive cleaner for eliminating particles from the surface of the dentures. When the dentures are not being worn, they should be placed in water and a safe area to protect them from damage.
Fixed and Removable Snap-in Dentures
Some types of snap-in dentures are securely attached in place and cannot be removed, but there are also some snap-in dentures which can be removed. The type of dentures which will best meet the patient’s needs will vary based on things such as the patient’s budget and specific needs. Some of the key differences between fixed implant-supported dentures and removable dentures are summarized below.
1. Removable or implant-supported dentures are specifically designed for patients to be able to remove the device. Patients typically remove the dentures each night for cleaning. A fixed denture, in comparison, is more permanent and must be removed by a dentist. This cleaning process for these dentures is also different.
2. Removable implant dentures are at an increased risk for slipping out of place compared to fixed dentures. Fixed dentures are securely attached to implants.
3. More implants are typically required in cases where fixed dentures are used, which increases the overall cost. Fixed dentures may also require an additional attachment bar for securing the denture in place.
The snap-in denture procedure can be quite lengthy and involves significant time for the mouth to heal. The procedure will begin with the surgical placement of the implants into the jaw. Patients must wait about 2 to 6 months for the implants and bone to heal and fuse together. This forms a strong foundation for the snap-in dentures. A second procedure may be required to uncover the implants. Extensions will then be attached. Temporary healing caps then create the foundation for the artificial teeth. Some implant systems already have the extensions attached and this step may not be necessary. Once the implants are inserted, a connecting device is tightened down to securely hold the dentures in place. The last step of the procedure involves creating the dentures and attaching them to the connecting device. The procedure can vary based on the needs and goals of the patient.
Snap-in Denture Candidates
Patients who are missing most or all of their teeth from issues such as an injury, dental cavities, or gum disease may be a good candidate for snap-in dentures. Snap-in dentures also work well for patients who are weary of the challenges associated with conventional dentures. Patients may also want to avoid some of the dietary and lifestyle limitations associated with traditional dentures.
Snap-in dentures are a more permanent tooth-replacement treatment option which can restore the patient’s ability to confidently smile, eat, and speak.