Snap-on dentures vs All-on-4
For many years, dentures were the only way to replace a full arch or mouth of missing teeth. But dentures can be uncomfortable, ill-fitting, and even detrimental to your overall oral health. Without tooth roots in place, your jawbone will start to deteriorate, and dentures do nothing to prevent it.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are anchored into your jawbone, helping to maintain your bone density and also providing strength and durability so you can eat your favorite foods and smile with confidence. There are two main options for full-mouth and full-arch tooth replacement with dental implants: snap-on dentures and All-on-4 implants. Here’s what you need to know about each option:
What are snap-on dentures?
Snap-on dentures look like traditional dentures, with a full set of prosthetic teeth and natural-looking gums attached to a plate. Rather than being attached to the gums daily with adhesives or messy pastes, however, snap-on dentures snap onto dental implants that have been surgically inserted under the gumline. Snap-on dentures require about 2-6 implants per arch, and they can be easily removed for cleaning and sleeping.
What are All-on-4 implants?
All-on-4 dental implants consist of an arch of prosthetic teeth, which are permanently attached to titanium implant posts surgically inserted into the jaw. As the name implies, only four implants are used per arch, but if you have the insufficient bone density for only four implants, there are options for six or eight implants as well. Because All-on-4 implants cannot be removed for cleaning, it’s important to maintain a regular oral hygiene routine of daily brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth.
Pros and cons of snap-on-dentures
The main advantage of snap-on dentures is their stability and durability, allowing you to eat and talk without worrying about slippage. Also, there is less friction on the gums and more stability in the jawbone. Many people also consider snap-on dentures to look more natural than conventional dentures. However, because the device includes a plate that covers the roof of the mouth, your speech might be affected until you get used to it.
Pros and cons of All-on-4 implants
All-on-4 implants can give you a whole new smile in just a day. The temporary prosthetic attached to the implants on the day of surgery will be replaced with a permanent set once the area has healed and the implants have fused with your jawbone. Another advantage of All-on-4 implants is that they allow you to enjoy the taste of food better because your palette is not covered with a denture plate. However, All-on-4 dental implants are typically more expensive than snap-on dentures, and because the prosthetic teeth are not removable, they do require a commitment to vigilant oral hygiene practices.
Which full-mouth tooth replacement option is right for you?
Snap-on dentures and All-on-Four dental implants might have slight differences, but overall both are excellent options for replacing a full arch or full mouth of missing teeth. Maintaining jawbone density is crucial to your long-term oral health, and the titanium posts implanted with both options will preserve your facial profile and allow you to eat, talk, and smile with confidence for decades to come. The choice between snap-on dentures and All-on-4 will depend on your current oral health situation, your jawbone density, and your budget. Dr. Hage will educate you about your options so you can make the best decision for you.
Full-mouth tooth replacement in San Diego
The ability to smile with confidence is priceless. If you need to replace a full arch or full mouth of missing teeth, Smile Designers in San Diego can help. For more information about snap-on dentures and All-on-4 dental implants, give us a call at (619) 222-6000 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hage today.