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Snap-on dentures are a popular concept for people trying to decide between getting a new pair of dentures or fixed dental implants. The design almost bridges the middle ground for someone who is worried about their dentures feeling secure, but has hesitations about getting more conventional implant treatment.

How Snap-on Dentures Work

A snap-on denture is essentially an “overdenture.” It looks completely identical to a traditional denture. But if you turn it over, there are special locators underneath the plate that will snap or clip onto a corresponding dental implant.

Typically, a snap-on denture needs a minimum of two implants or up to four to keep it in place. When you press down onto the prosthesis, it slips into a clipped position onto the implant abutments. There’s no need for messy adhesives or pastes, the implants keep the denture from rocking or moving throughout the day.

Snap-on Dentures vs. Fixed Implants

What a lot of people don’t realize is that snap-on overdentures still feel larger and bulky inside of their mouths. The “plate” covers their palate, which still interferes with everyday activities like eating and speaking. Still, it’s a big improvement from having a denture that’s always rocking or slipping out of place.

However, overdentures pale in comparison to hybrid, fixed implant options. When you elect to permanently restore your arch of teeth using something like TeethXpress or an “All-on-4” concept, you get an entirely new smile that doesn’t clip in and out of place.

With a fixed hybrid appliance, your new set of teeth is:

• Non-removable
• Contoured to the shape of your mouth
• Easy to eat and speak with
• Healthier for your bone support
• More natural-looking

The day-to-day differences between an overdenture and fixed implants is black and white. With a snap-on denture you’re still removing your “teeth” at night and having to clean them routinely each time you eat. On the other hand, TeethXpress will allow you to brush, floss, and go straight to bed. There’s no added risk of embarrassing moments around loved ones.

Selecting a fixed implant design allows you to go about your day-to-day activities without any major changes (or special considerations, such as changes to your diet.)

The Woodlands Implant and Denture Consultations

As one of The Woodlands most experienced implant specialists, Dr. Kip Saunders knows what it takes to deliver a smile that meets your needs and expectations. When you’re trying to decide between a snap-on denture and fixed hybrid implants, the latter typically offers the best results. However, we do implement overdentures for situations related to transition between implant placement and final restoration.

If you’re in the early stages of deciding how to replace your missing teeth, we encourage you to reserve a consultation with our implant specialist in The Woodlands. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of the various options available, so that you feel confident when it comes time to take the next steps.

Contact our implant dentist today to reserve an appointment.