When people are missing a lot of teeth or all their natural teeth, they often want a solution that will look and feel like real teeth. Snap-in Dentures are a great option because they can be cleaned and inserted into the mouth in much the same way as traditional dentures. Plus, they are more stable and don’t tend to fall out in the middle of a conversation or meal. But are they right for everyone? The answer isn’t as clear cut as you might think.
First, you’ll need to have a surgical procedure that inserts implants into the jawbone. These look like small, metal cylinders or screws. Then, you’ll need to wait two to six months as the bone heals and secures them. But some patients don’t have the proper jawbone structure or gum tissue to support implant-supported dentures, and that can exclude them from snap-in denture treatments.
If you’re missing all of your natural teeth, then you might be a candidate for Snap-in Dentures, but it’s important to meet with an oral surgeon or periodontist to ensure that your jawbone is strong enough to support them. They can also perform a gum and tongue examination to check for any signs of disease that could interfere with the healing process or cause complications.
Once you’re sure you have the right condition, then your dentist will create and place a locator, which is essentially a temporary denture that serves as an anchor for the implants. After that, a connecting device is placed on top of the implants, and then full dentures are created and attached to the connector. In some cases, a second surgery may be required to uncover the implants and attach extensions.
Besides being more comfortable than regular dentures, snap-in dentures are more stable. This means that you can eat a wider variety of foods, and you won’t have to worry about your new teeth suddenly falling out in the middle of a conversation or during a meal. But, as with any dental treatment, it’s important to keep up with routine visits to your dentist.
The cost of Snap-in Dentures can be quite high because they are considered cosmetic and not medically necessary, so your health insurance may not cover the expense. Your dentist can provide you with a specific quote before you decide to go with this option. You can expect to spend several thousand dollars for the entire procedure and dentures, depending on your needs. However, you can get a lower price if you opt for a minimal number of implants and dentures. That might help you fit this treatment into your budget. Regardless of which type of dentures you choose, it’s important to brush them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and to rinse them regularly to remove plaque. This will reduce your risk of gum disease and help you maintain a healthy smile.