What are Snap on Overdentures?

Taking care of our teeth is more important than ever in today’s world. With the advancements in technology and the increasing awareness of the impact of oral health on overall well-being, it’s crucial to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Snap-on overdentures are dental prosthesis that helps individuals with missing or damaged teeth restore their smile and improve their oral health. They are designed to securely snap onto existing dental implants or remaining natural teeth and provide a stable and comfortable fit. Unlike traditional dentures, snap-on overdentures are not removable and provide a permanent solution to restore the function and appearance of a patient’s smile. Here is what you need to know about snap-on overdentures.

Types of Snap-on Overdentures

Bar-Retained Overdentures

These are a type of snap-on overdenture that utilizes a bar attachment system to secure the denture. The bar is made of titanium or other biocompatible materials and is surgically placed onto the existing dental implants or remaining natural teeth. The bar provides a stable and secure connection between dental implants and dentures, allowing for a comfortable and functional fit. The denture is then snapped onto the bar and held by small clips or locators. Such snap-on overdentures are mainly for patients with few dental implants or remaining natural teeth and require a full arch restoration.

Ball-Retained Overdentures

Ball-Retained Overdentures are attached to the mouth via a ball attachment method. The titanium or other biocompatible materials used to make the ball attachments are surgically affixed to the already-installed dental implants or remaining natural teeth. Ball attachments are also used to ensure a snug fit and stable connection between dental implants and dentures. The denture is then fastened to the ball attachments using a snap, with a socket or housing holding it in place. These snap-on overdentures are perfect for patients who need a full arch repair and have more dental implants or natural teeth still present.

Factors Used To Determine if One Needs Snap-on Overdentures

Number and Condition of Remaining Natural Teeth

Snap-on overdentures rely on a secure attachment to the existing dental implants or natural teeth for stability and function. Therefore, the number and condition of the remaining natural teeth will play a significant role in the success of snap-on overdentures. If a patient has sufficient healthy natural teeth, they may be a candidate for snap-on overdentures. However, if the remaining natural teeth are damaged or missing, the patient may need to undergo additional procedures, such as dental implants or tooth extractions, to receive snap-on overdentures.

Bone Density and Volume

Dental implants are required for snap-on overdentures in order to provide a stable and secure base for the denture, and the stability of the implants is based on the patient’s jawbone volume and density. If the patient has a healthy jawbone with adequate density and volume, they are likely to be a good candidate for snap-on overdentures. However, if the patient has a decreased jawbone density, they may need a bone graft procedure to build up the jawbone and make it suitable for dental implants.

Patient’s Overall Oral Health

To receive snap-on overdentures, the patient must have a healthy oral environment free from gum disease, decay, and other oral health conditions. The dentist will perform a comprehensive oral exam to determine the patient’s overall oral health and identify any issues that may need to be addressed before receiving snap-on overdentures. If the patient has any underlying oral health issues, such as gum disease or cavities, the dentist will recommend treatment to address these issues and improve overall oral health.

Patient’s Individual Goals and Needs

Patients’ individual goals and needs play a critical role in determining if they are a good candidate for snap-on overdentures. Snap-on overdentures offer several benefits over traditional dentures, but they may not be the right choice for every patient. The dentist will discuss the patient’s goals and needs and determine if snap-on overdentures are the best option to meet those needs. This personalized approach to dental treatment ensures that the patient will receive the best care and treatment suited to their individual needs and goals.

Advantages of Snap-on Overdentures

Improved Stability and Retention

The snap-on design, combined with dental implants or remaining natural teeth, provides