Snap-in Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures: What’s the Difference?

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 36 million people in the U.S. do not have any teeth, and 120 million people are missing at least one tooth. Are you among this population in need of either dental implants or dentures to improve your confidence, health, and quality of life? If so, navigating your prosthodontic options, such as dental implants and snap-in vs. traditional dentures, can be difficult, especially if you have financial concerns. Fortunately, snap-in dentures’ costs are relatively low—even lower when you choose a teaching clinic like Penn Dental Medicine for dental care.

Understanding Which Denture is Best for You & Your Budget

Dentures are appliances used by patients who have multiple missing teeth. Wearing dentures can help with a patient’s eating and speaking and builds confidence in their smile. These devices require the same level of cleaning as natural teeth do. Dentures may be full or partial, depending on the number of teeth lost.

When your prosthodontist talks to you about denture choices, you’ll discuss options such as:

• Conventional dentures. These dentures are not placed in your mouth until after all teeth are removed and tissues have healed. This process can take several months.
• Immediate dentures. These dentures can be inserted the same day your teeth are removed. While having “teeth” during your healing period is a relief to many patients, note that you may still need to get the dentures relined after the jaw has fully healed.
• Overdentures. These dentures fit over the remaining natural teeth in your mouth. This option is suitable for patients who have some teeth that can be saved and supported by the denture.

Of these options, some may take several months to complete, depending on the number of missing teeth, the complexity of your situation, and recovery time from any tooth extraction or repair before moving forward.

Snap-in Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures: What’s the Difference?

Traditional dentures rely on the gum and ridge bone for support and use suction and adhesive to stick to the gums. These are probably what you picture when you think about dentures. These are removed every night for cleaning. While traditional dentures are an easy, less permanent solution that doesn’t require a surgical procedure, they can also slip out of place when speaking and make it hard to eat.

Implant-retained or implant-supported snap-in dentures function a bit differently. The process involves first inserting and anchoring the necessary implants into the jaw. Next, an extension (or snap-in attachment system) that snaps in and out is used to hold the implants in place. These are a more permanent denture solution and offer an affordable choice for patients who need several teeth replaced but cannot afford the cost of multiple implants.

Your prosthodontist can help you determine which denture is the ideal solution for your oral and overall health, confidence, and budget. You’ll want to keep in mind that some people believe these dentures look more natural, they fit better, and are more comfortable. They can also help preserve the shape of your jawbone, which can prevent bone loss and facial sagging.

How to Choose the Right Snap-in Dentures

If you’re considering snap-in dentures, your next choice is between implant-supported dentures designed to be removed and fixed dentures. Removable dentures are usually less expensive because they’ll need fewer implant posts than fixed dentures to keep the fixture in place.

PDM is Philadelphia’s Choice for Snap-in Dentures

Penn Dental Medicine believes everyone should have access to low-cost prosthodontic care, including snap-in dentures so that you can have the beautiful smile you deserve. Because we are a teaching clinic affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, we provide discounted procedures and treatments for Philadelphia residents and surrounding communities.

For more information about snap-in dentures costs or to schedule an appointment for a consultation, call our office at 215-898-8965. You can also download our brochure, Dentures 101: Penn Dental Medicine’s Guide to Dentures, to learn more about the basics of dentures.

At your appointment, one of the student dentists from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine will examine your mouth and determine the best type of treatment you need. Our student dentists always work under the supervision of professional faculty members, so you can rest assured you are getting the highest quality of care possible.

So don’t let missing teeth affect your health, appearance, quality of life, and confidence. Let us help you find the best denture solution for your situation and budget. Schedule an appointment or contact our office at 215-898-8965 today.