What Are Snap In Dentures? An Overview of the Process, Benefits, and Recovery Timeline
If you’ve been researching stable alternatives to traditional dentures, you have likely come across a solution that is rapidly growing in popularity: snap in dentures. This innovative option offers a remarkable improvement in stability and confidence, allowing you to move past the common frustrations of conventional dentures. But what are they, exactly, how do they work, and what does the process involve from start to finish?
In the video above, Dr. Soren Paape from Smile Now Dentures and Implants breaks down everything you need to know. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of getting implant supported dentures, explaining what to expect at each stage and how our modern, in-house approach makes the experience comfortable and predictable.
What Are Snap In Dentures?
Snap in dentures, also known as implant-retained or implant supported dentures, are a secure and stable version of traditional dentures. Unlike conventional dentures that rest directly on the gums and often require messy adhesives to stay in place, this advanced solution attaches to several dental implants that have been surgically placed in your jawbone. This direct connection provides a firm anchor, preventing the slipping, shifting, and irritation that many denture wearers experience.
While they provide excellent stability throughout the day, they are still removable. You can easily snap them out at night for cleaning and to give your gums a rest. They represent a fantastic middle ground between traditional dentures and full-fixed implant bridges, offering superior function without being a permanent fixture. While our clinicians always recommend full-fixed teeth when possible, snap in dentures are an excellent choice for patients facing financial constraints or other limitations.
Photos of Snap-In Dentures Unsnapped & Snapped In
How Do Snap In Dentures Work?
The mechanism is both simple and highly effective. It creates a stable foundation that holds your prosthesis firmly in place, giving you a much more natural and confident experience. Here’s a quick overview of how do snap in dentures work:
- Implant Anchors: The process starts with placing two to four small dental implants into your jawbone. These titanium posts act like artificial tooth roots.
- Healing and Osseointegration: Over a few months, your jawbone naturally fuses with the implants in a process called osseointegration. This creates an incredibly strong and durable foundation.
- Custom Denture with Connectors: Your custom-made denture is fabricated with special connectors, or housings, on its underside. These housings align perfectly with attachments, called locators, that are placed on the healed implants.
- A Secure Snap: To wear them, you simply align the denture over the implants and press down firmly until it clicks or “snaps” into place. The connection is strong enough to keep the denture secure while you eat and talk but is designed for easy removal when you need it.
The Step-by-Step Process for Getting Snap In Dentures
At Smile Now, we have streamlined the entire process to be seamless and stress-free. We handle every step with our expert team right here in our office. Here is what you can expect:
- Free Consultation and Digital Imaging:
Your journey begins with a complimentary 60 to 90-minute consultation. We take a 3D CT scan to precisely evaluate your oral health and bone density, discuss your personal goals, and create a fully customized treatment plan. - Implant Placement Surgery:
Using the highly detailed map from your 3D scan, our dentist places the implants into your jawbone with maximum precision. The procedure is performed comfortably under local anesthesia or sedation and typically takes less than 90 minutes. - Healing and Osseointegration Phase:
For the next three to four months, your jawbone will heal and integrate with the implants. During this important phase, we provide you with a comfortable temporary denture so you can maintain a full smile. - Denture Fabrication and Final Fitting:
Once healing is complete, we move to the final stage. At this visit, we uncover the implants and place the snap-in locators. We then attach the housings to your denture and ensure a perfect fit. This final appointment usually takes about an hour, and we will show you how to easily attach and detach your new teeth before you leave.
Recovery and Life After Your Procedure
Recovery from the implant placement surgery is typically mild, with most patients returning to their normal daily activities within two to three days. Once the healing is complete and you receive your final snap in dentures, you’ll notice an immediate difference. You can expect to regain about 60-70% of your natural chewing ability. There will be no more adhesives, no more slippage, and no more frustration. You can finally eat, laugh, speak, and smile with total confidence again.
Why Choose Smile Now for Your Denture Procedure?
Choosing the right dental team is crucial. At our Smile Now offices, we specialize in implant supported dentures and make the experience seamless. Our patients consistently report smoother recoveries and better-fitting dentures thanks to our approach.
- All-In-One Location:
Every procedure, from the initial scan to the final fitting, is done in-house. This means no bouncing around between specialists or waiting for work from outside labs like many of our competitors require. - One Expert Team:
You will work directly with one of our amazing clinicians from your first consultation to your final smile reveal. You are taken care of under one roof by a single, dedicated team. - Modern Technology:
We use state-of-the-art technology like 3D imaging and digital design to ensure maximum precision, which leads to better outcomes and more comfortable dentures.
If you are ready to explore a more secure and comfortable solution than traditional dentures, contact Smile Now today to schedule your free consultation. We will walk you through the entire process, answer any questions you have, and design a plan to get your smile back quickly and comfortably.