What Are Snap-on Dentures (Overdentures)?

 

 

 

Snap-on dentures are is a removeable denture with implants, for stability. Snap-on implants need locator abutments (like a button). When it’s a Snap-on denture, you have a button located on the gum. Snap-on dentures combine the advantages of conventional dentures with dental implants. Snap-on dentures are also called implant supported dentures or overdentures and are a more permanent alternative.

The denture is supported by metal posts in the jawbone, not just the gums. Bone regrows around the implant, a process known as “osseointegrate”, accepting and bonding the dental implant to the bone.

 

 

Are Snap-on dentures Your Best Option?

Snap-on dentures were designed for patients who are suffering from severe tooth decay or missing teeth, however, Snap-on dentures may not be the best choice for everyone.

The jawbone must be fully developed so there is enough bone to support implants. Snap-on dentures are most suitable for adults and seniors. Moreover, patients in good health and are non-smokers have a lower chance of early failure. If failure does occur, the patient would have to consider other options.

What’s the Pros and Cons of Snap-on Dentures?

• Snap-on dentures will not slip off or trigger a gag reflex, they’re not maintenance free. They require nightly removal and cleaning.
• They don’t cover the roof of your mouth so allows for more taste sensitivity.
• They can prevent further bone loss but do require surgical placement, a process that can take up to six months.
• Although typically more cost effective over conventional dentures, Snap-on dentures can still be pricy depending on your case.

Final Thoughts on Snap-on Dentures (Overdentures)

If you’re considering a Snap-on denture procedure, educate yourself with the common failures of this procedure. There’s a lot of articles written on Snap-on dentures.

If you decide that Snap-on dentures are your best choice, avoid mini-implants. Mini-implants are well-known for a high failure rate.

Snap-on dentures (overdentures) can provide patients 40 to 50% of their chewing ability (compared to natural teeth). Snap-on dentures on average last five to ten years.

Snap-on dentures can provide lip support to prevent physical changes in a patients face. The All-on-4 procedure is not best for all patients.

If a patient has enough bone, Snap-on dentures can be an option but typically not recommended. It’s only recommended for patients who want All-on-4 (fixed dentures) but can’t afford it.

For more insight on how to determine if Snap-on dentures are right for you, check out our Snap-on (Overdentures) blog.

If you’re interested in getting a no-obligation, complementary dental treatment estimate for your individual case, click this link to send us your inquiry and we’ll get back to you.