Living with missing teeth for too long will eventually lead to jawbone atrophy that can complicate the process of placing dental restorations. Luckily, snap-on dentures and All-on-4 dentures can allow patients to enjoy the benefits of dental implants despite significant jawbone erosion. Here’s a brief guide to how these treatments are similar as well as how they are different.
How Do All-on-4 Dental Implants Work?
All-on-4 dental implants use four titanium posts strategically placed in the strongest points of the jawbone to anchor a full denture that can replace a complete arch of missing teeth. This is done by installing the two rear dental implants at an angle to maximize the amount of jawbone structure with which it can fuse, creating a sturdy hold despite considerable jawbone atrophy. All-on-4 dental implants are slightly more secure than snap-on dentures, and they cannot be removed without help from a qualified dentist.
How Do Snap-on Dentures Work?
Similarly to All-on-4 dental implants, snap-on dentures are typically used to securely mount lifelike replacement teeth on a significantly atrophied jawbone. However, these appliances are held in place with two to six dental implants, and they are designed to be removed by the patient for daily oral hygiene sessions. After removing their dentures, the patient must carefully brush and floss them and also thoroughly brush their soft oral tissues to eliminate infection-causing germs, tartar, and plaque.
Which Tooth Replacement Option Is Best for Me?
Your candidacy for All-on-4 dental implants or snap-on dentures depends on the specific details of your oral health, so only your dentist can determine if either of these treatments are suitable for you. All-on-4 dentures will generally require more implants than snap-ons, which can make them more costly. However, All-on-4 offers several distinct advantages over snap-on dentures such as:
- Not incorporating a plate that covers the roof of your mouth, which can make speech and tasting food more difficult.
- Only requiring the same oral hygiene routine as natural teeth, meaning that you’ll need to brush, floss, and use antibacterial mouthwash daily.
- Providing greater stimulation to the jaw so the patient can prevent further bone loss or possibly reverse the process altogether.
Replacing your lost teeth can be a massive positive step for your oral and overall health. Consulting with your dentist can put you on the path to enjoying a beautifully complete smile.
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Reed earned her dental degree at the UNMC College of Dentistry in 1991 and earned her certificate of specialization in prosthodontics in 1993. She is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the American Prosthodontic Society, and her office in Lincoln offers preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry as well as denture and dental implant services. If you’re interested in replacing your lost teeth, contact her office online or dial (402) 488-5007.
