• Snap-in dentures or implant dentures combine the advantages of dental implants and dentures. They are attached to two or four rods that are inserted into the jawbone.
  • Snap-in dentures are suitable for the upper and lower dental arches, but you have to remove them at night and for cleaning. This option is suitable for patients with moderate or no bone loss who do not smoke and do not suffer from TMJ syndrome or gum disease.
  • Snap-in dentures prevent bone loss and improve facial structure. They also provide comfort when speaking and eating, and do not require bone grafting or sinus lifting.

  • Redefine your smile, redesign your life. Use Authority Dental to book an appointment for cheap dental implants nearby. It's fast, easy and trustworthy.

Are you considering snap-in dentures as a tooth replacement option? Here's everything you need to know.

What are snap on dentures?

Removable implants denture

Picture by Authority Dental under CC 2.0 license

Denture implants are a removable tooth restoration solution. They can be complete or partial. Implants are inserted into the jawbone and a row of teeth in the form of dentures "snaps" onto the rods. Other names for clip-in dentures include implant-retained dentures and snap-in or snap-on overdentures.

Harry Lee, DMD, explains: "The invention of the snap-in denture, or implant-retained overdenture, is one of the biggest wins for dentistry in recent memory. For decades, the only option for replacing a full arch of teeth was the traditional removable denture, which, in my experience, causes endless frustration due to slipping, painful sore spots, and constant bone deterioration.'

"The snap-in denture—supported by just two to four strategically placed implants—fixes all these issues," he stresses.

This technique takes advantage of dental implants' most significant benefits, i.e., their strength and durability.

For full-mouth restorations, the denture is usually mounted on 2 rods. Depending on the patient's mouth condition, the dentist might decide to increase the number to 4. This helps stabilize the denture. Snap-on dentures are suitable for the upper and lower arches. The false teeth must be removed at night for cleaning.

Richard Hattaway

Richard Hattaway, DDS

When a patient is transitioning from a traditional denture, 2 implants are a great option. When transitioning from natural dentition, 2 implants are not usually enough.

Snap-in denture candidate profile

Snap in denture on mini dental implants

Picture by Authority Dental under CC 2.0 license

The dental implant procedure has requirements that must be met. It is part of getting snap-on dentures. Here is a general candidate overview:

  • missing or severely damaged teeth,

  • moderate or no bone loss,

  • non-smoker,

  • no TMJ syndrome or gum disease, and

  • readiness to avoid hard foods.

Implant-retained dentures are supported by fewer rods than permanent implant solutions. You may even get away with mini implants. This makes the whole thing more affordable; a little bone loss is not a big deal, and you may get by without bone grafting or sinus lifting.

Smoking and dental implants, however, do not mix. If you are a smoker, you must be willing to quit, at least during and for a few months after the procedure, while recovery takes place. Cigarettes are a common reason for implant loss.

Patients with TMJ syndrome usually prefer to keep their teeth in at night and have a sturdier attachment. This is why permanent solutions may be better for them. The same applies to those who enjoy steaks or other foods that are difficult to chew and do not want to commit to a soft-food diet.

Moreover, lastly, any solution with dentures and implants requires a healthy mouth. The patient must undergo excellent aftercare, but may also need to be prepared for treatment beforehand. Periodontitis must be healed before implantation. What is more, if you have a history of gum disease, you may be more prone to dental implant infections.

Implant dentures pros and cons

You should consider the pros and cons of snap-on dentures before making your decision.

First of all, implant dentures help prevent bone loss and improve facial structure, making you look younger. They provide more comfort in speaking, eating, smiling, and laughing than a traditional denture. There is often no need for bone grafting or sinus lifting.

Harry Lee

Harry Lee, DMD

I explain to patients that the implants act like sturdy little anchors with snaps on top, which dramatically improves stability. A traditional lower denture relies on gravity and muscle control; a snap-in denture is firmly locked into place but can be easily removed at night for cleaning. This stability is life-changing: patients report speaking, laughing, and eating with confidence they have not felt in years. Crucially, the presence of the implants prevents the continuous bone loss, one of the most significant long-term risks of wearing conventional dentures.

On the other hand, removable denture implants may cause sore spots, and relines are sometimes needed. Although the most affordable implant solution for full-mouth restorations, they can still be quite expensive for some patients.

  • Help prevent bone loss

  • Improve facial structure

  • Offer comfort in speaking, eating, smiling, and laughing

  • No need for bone augmentation procedures

  • Most affordable implant solution for full-mouth restorations

  • Can lead to sore spots

  • Relines are needed

  • Expensive compared to traditional dentures

Harry Lee

Harry Lee, DMD

However, it is vital to understand this is a removable option, not a fixed one. It is an excellent, more affordable compromise that requires less bone than fixed implant-supported bridges. However, patients must still commit to removing and cleaning the appliance daily and avoid hard, crunchy foods during the initial healing phase to prevent damage to the locking mechanisms.

Implant-retained vs. implant-supported dentures

Fixed implants denture lower arch

Picture by Authority Dental under CC 2.0 license

Implant-retained (overdentures) and implant-supported (hybrid fixed) dentures may easily be confused. Either one can be a great fit for a patient who needs multiple teeth replaced or a full-mouth restoration. Here are some key differences between the two:

  • Implant-retained dentures

  • Removable solution

  • 2 or more rods

  • More affordable

  • A little bone loss is not a contraindication

  • Can be mounted on mini implants

  • Does not fully absorb shock from biting

  • Has to be removed at night and for cleaning

  • Relines are needed

  • Implant-supported dentures

  • Fixed solution

  • Usually 4 rods

  • More expensive

  • Needs an adequate amount of bone

  • Bone grafting or sinus lifting might be necessary

  • Mini dental implants are not suitable for this solution

  • Absorbs the full force of a bite

  • Gives the best speaking, laughing, eating, and sneezing comfort

A patient who has experienced some bone loss may be a good candidate for a type of implant-supported solution called All-on-4. Still, the appliance is a fixed bridge and can only be removed by the dentist.

FAQ

How many implants are needed for dentures?

Dentures with implants can most often be installed on 2 or 4 rods. Permanent full-mouth restorations often need 4 rods to remain stable in the mouth.

How long does it take to get implant dentures?

Bearing in mind the initial consultation, possible extractions, surgery, and casts, it can take up to a year. In between, there are months of healing during which you may have to go without teeth. Sometimes, temporary solutions are possible.

How to care for implant-supported dentures?

Just as natural teeth should be cleaned every day, the snap-on denture should be cleaned every day. All surfaces must be thoroughly brushed with soft bristles to both avoid infection and damage to the restoration. Remove it at night as well, to avoid dry mouth and fungal diseases.

Which is better, dentures or dental implants?

It depends on your situation. A dental implant is an excellent solution for a single missing tooth. If you have more missing teeth, you can consider a traditional denture or one supported by implants.

Traditional dentures are cheaper and can be ready more quickly, but have higher running costs and need to be replaced more often. Implant-retained or implant-supported dentures are more stable, durable, and provide more comfort. They can take longer to make, however, and are much more expensive.