Snap-In Vs Screw-In Dentures
Snap in vs Screw-in dentures, which is better? According to epidemiological studies by the American College of Prosthodontists estimated that 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and about 40 million are missing all of their teeth. As we age, the problem worsens as 30 percent of adults between 65-74 years old have no natural teeth.
It has become a desire of everyone missing all of their teeth due to a dental condition or injury to get dentures as a form of replacement teeth; snap-in and screw-in dentures are among many available today. We will be reviewing the snap-in vs screw-in dentures to determine which is better.
Snap In Dentures, What To Know About It
Snap-in dentures are removable; snap-in dentures have the potential of slipping out of place; however, they are more stable and versatile than traditional dentures. Snap-in dentures are titanium screw implants surgically placed in your jawbone, which will hold the dentures firmly in place.
Although they are removable and secure, they are not as strong as screw-in dentures. You are expected to remove and soak snap-in dentures in the water every night to keep them healthy and clean from bacteria.
How Do Snap-In Dentures Work?
Two to four dental implants are used in each jaw with snap-in dentures. Sometimes, you might require up to 10 to be inserted, depending on your budget. The process for receiving snap-in dentures can be lengthy, including the time it takes to heal from the procedure completely:
- To start, implants are surgically placed into the jaw. At this point, 2 to 6 months may be required to enable the implants and the bone to connect. This process is called osseointegration and is necessary for implants and snap-in dentures to be successful.
- Depending on the person, a second surgery may be required to uncover the implants and attach extensions. These provide the foundation for artificial teeth. However, this step may be skipped if the implant system already has extensions (healing caps) attached.
- After the implant portion of the treatment has been completed, full dentures are made using a dental laboratory to attach precisely to the implants. This may take several appointments.
- Once the dentures have been made, they’ll be attached to your implants for the first time. You’ll be given instructions on removing, reattaching, and caring for them.
The exact nature and steps of the procedure will vary from person to person. Your oral surgeon, dentist, or prosthodontist will map out the process according to your unique needs.
What are the different types of snap-in dentures?
Bar-retained and Ball-retained dentures are the two most common types of Snap-on dentures. In both cases, the denture will be constructed of an acrylic base that resembles gums.
Porcelain or acrylic teeth are connected to the acrylic base and appear like natural teeth. Both forms of dentures require at least two implants for protection—more types of implants dentures.
Cost of snap-in dentures
On average, both upper and down snap-in dentures can cost $6,000 on the procedure and dentures. This price may be higher depending on the number of implants you need and your specific circumstances.
If your insurance is to cover the cost of the snap-in dentures, it can be a deciding factor if you’re on a budget. You can also request your dentist to give you the quotation before you make your choice. The cost of implant dentures may be higher depending on the number of implants you need and your specific circumstances, as listed.
Pros Of Snap-On Dentures
Like screw-in dentures, snap-in dentures offer many benefits that conventional dentures won’t. When you undergo a snap-in dentures implant, you will save and prevent the following:
Provides a secure fit. Conventional dentures rely on the gums and underlying bones to hold them in place. As a result, patients can experience slipping of the denture during speaking or eating. This problem worsens over time as the supporting bone for the denture resorbs. Snap-on dentures provide a secure attachment of the denture to the jaws, which keeps them in place.
Produces a more natural appearance: Although conventional dentures have improved in recent years, the secure fit of snap-on dentures offers a more natural appearance.
Prevents bone loss: Dental implants stimulate the bone and prevent the loss of bone. The bone of the upper and lower jaws stays healthy and robust due to the pressure and stimulation of teeth roots during chewing. After tooth extraction and the loss of this stimulation, the bone begins to resorb or dissolve.
Prevents sagging facial muscles: Teeth and their surrounding bone support facial muscles. These muscles tend to sag following teeth extractions due to this loss of support. Dental implants help preserve the bone and prevent sagging.
Restores proper chewing: Implant-supported dentures allow you to eat the foods you need for proper nutrition. The superior biting forces overcome the diet limits associated with wearing conventional dentures.
Eliminates denture adhesives: Many denture wearers rely on adhesives to hold their dentures in place. Implants furnish superior retention without the aid of these products.
Decreases gum soreness: Implants keep the denture from moving around, causing gum sores and pain.
Problems With Snap-in Dentures The Cons
Although several benefits are linked to snap-in dentures, even though screw-in dentures are a better option, snap-in dentures have some drawbacks. You’ll need to consider the following circumstance as you make a decision.
- Since implants will be placed in your jawbone, Snap-in dentures will require surgery. Even though the complication rate is low, the procedure requires a minimum local anesthetic.
- Depending on your tooth or gum decay level, you may require a bone graft to support the implants necessary for snap-in dentures. This can come with an extended healing period.
- When the Snap-in dentures eventually break down. As well, the attachments may become loose over time and need tightening.
- Snap-in dentures are costlier than conventional dentures, and your insurance may not cover them.
Snap-in Vs Screw-in dentures
Screw-in dentures are more stable than snap-in dentures and are securely fitted permanently in your implants. The dentures are “screwed” to the implant posts, which makes it impossible to slip. Read all about screw-in dentures here.
Conclusion
Getting snap-in or screw-in dentures depends on your budget and jawbone status. Some patients may not qualify for either of the two options and may have to choose from other availabilities.
Your dentist will have to inform you which option your condition is qualified for, as most implants require a strong and healthy jawbone to be carried out. If you are qualified to have an implant and can afford the bills, screw-in dentures should be your option.
This article is not to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
