According to the American College of Prosthodontists, approximately 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. And, shockingly, over 36 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. If you’re one of the millions living with tooth loss, then it’s time to consider implant-supported dentures.
Implant-supported dentures–or snap-on dentures–are customized appliances that attach to surgically-placed posts on the upper and lower jaw. These dentures can be either temporary or permanent, but both are designed to offer long-lasting stability and comfort.
In this article, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of snap-on dentures. Using this information, you’ll be able to make the right choice for your lifestyle and oral health.
Advantages of Snap-on Dentures
The advantages of implant-supported dentures are numerous. However, here are five major advantages that patients can enjoy with these sturdy appliances.
They Look Natural
A prosthodontist uses biocompatible material to craft custom-made dentures that look like the patient’s natural teeth. The prosthodontist accomplishes this by using impressions of a patient’s mouth to design dentures that fit and flatter their facial features.
They Are Easy to Wear
Traditional dentures need messy adhesives to keep them in place. However, snap-on dentures don’t require dental adhesives, because the implant keeps them firmly in place. Furthermore, patients can easily attach and remove their implant-supported dentures by gently snapping them on and off the implant.
They Offer Great Stability
Conventional dentures rest on the jaw bone, which provides some stability. However, the posts that stabilize snap-on dentures offer superior security, because the posts fuse directly to the jaw bone.
Great Stability Provides Great Chewing Ability
The increased stability of snap-on dentures means that patients can restore their normal chewing ability. Additionally, patients can confidently enjoy speaking, smiling, and laughing with these durable appliances.
They Retain and Maintain a Healthy Jaw Bone
Tooth loss isn’t just a source of embarrassment for some patients–it’s also a health hazard. That’s because untreated tooth loss will lead to jaw bone deterioration. However, surgically implanting posts into the jaw bone prevents nerve damage and encourages blood circulation, which prevents jaw bone deterioration.
Disadvantages of Snap-on Dentures
The disadvantages of implant-supported dentures are few but distinct. Here, we’ll explore three drawbacks of these restorative devices.
The Jaw Bone Must Be Healthy
If ever there was a catch-22, this is it. Dental professionals recommend implant-supported dentures to preserve the jaw bone. However, an oral surgeon cannot surgically place the implants if a patient has lost too much jaw bone density already. So, it is important that patients act swiftly to restore missing teeth before the jaw bone deteriorates.
More Expensive Than Traditional Dentures
Patients seeking snap-on dentures can expect to pay between $1,000 to $10,000. While the price may seem steep, these appliances don’t require patients to spend additional money on products like dental adhesives. Therefore, snap-on dentures are a good long-term investment because they don’t require more products at the patient’s expense.
Potential Wear and Tear
The snap-on nature of these dentures may lead to the ball-and-socket attachment system wearing down over time. If this happens, then patients will need to replace the appliance.
Dental Restorations in Lombard, IL
Are you ready to determine your candidacy for implant-supported dentures? Then, it’s time to visit Dental Care of Lombard. Dr. Julie Glud and her caring team will carefully assess your oral health and explore all your restorative dentistry options. To schedule a consultation, call us at (630) 629-5700 or request an appointment online.
