Implant-supported dentures in Southaven, MS, also commonly called snap-in dentures, provide a more secure way to replace missing teeth. By attaching a removable denture to dental implants, this treatment can reduce slipping and movement while making it easier to eat, speak and smile with confidence.
Dr. M. A. Bleibel has placed more than 15,000 dental implants and has completed more than 1,000 implant-supported and snap-in denture cases. Our practice also provides denture fabrication, adjustments, implant treatment and related laboratory work in one location.
Implant-Supported Dentures Explained
Implant-supported dentures are removable dentures that attach to dental implants placed in the jawbone. They are often called snap-in dentures because the denture connects to small attachments on the implants and snaps securely into place. Your implant-retained denture is still removable and should be taken out for regular cleaning. This makes snap-in dentures different from fixed full-arch implant restorations, which remain attached during normal daily use.
Traditional dentures rely primarily on the gums, natural suction and the shape of the mouth for support. Implant-supported dentures use the implants for additional retention, which can help reduce rocking or slipping.
Benefits Of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported and snap-in dentures may offer several advantages over traditional removable dentures:
- Improved Stability: The denture connects to implants, helping reduce movement while eating and speaking.
- Better Chewing Support: Greater denture stability may make it easier to chew a wider range of foods.
- Greater Confidence: Less movement can help the denture feel more predictable during everyday activities.
- Less Dependence On Adhesive: Some patients may need less denture adhesive or none at all.
- Jawbone Stimulation: Dental implants help transfer chewing forces into the jawbone where the implants are placed.
- Removable For Cleaning: Snap-in dentures can be taken out at home so the denture, gums and implant attachments can be cleaned thoroughly.
- Improved Upper Denture Design: In some cases, an implant-supported upper denture can be designed with less material covering the palate.
Every treatment plan is different, and our dentist will explain what improvements may be realistic based on your mouth, existing denture and implant plan.
How Implant-Supported Dentures Work
Treatment begins with a detailed evaluation of your gums, jawbone, bite and current dental condition.
- Consultation And Evaluation: Our dentist examines your mouth and discusses the problems you may be having with missing teeth or an existing denture.
- 3D Imaging: Cone beam imaging may be used to evaluate the jawbone and plan implant positions.
- Treatment Planning: Our dentist determines how many implants are appropriate and where they should be positioned.
- Implant Placement: Dental implants are placed in the jawbone to create support for the denture.
- Healing And Integration: The implants are given time to integrate with the surrounding bone.
- Attachment Connection: Small attachment components are placed on the implants.
- Denture Fitting: The denture is fitted so it connects securely to the implant attachments.
- Adjustments And Follow-Up: Our team checks the bite, comfort and retention and makes adjustments when needed.
Our practice uses digital implant planning and restorative technology when appropriate. Our on-site dental laboratory also allows us to handle many denture adjustments, repairs and related laboratory needs within our practice.
What To Expect
Some soreness, swelling or tenderness is normal after implant placement. The amount of recovery needed varies depending on the number of implants placed, whether teeth were removed and the individual treatment plan. A softer diet may be recommended during the early healing period. Our team will provide instructions for keeping the implant areas clean and protecting the implants while they heal.
Once healing is complete and the denture is connected to the implants, many patients notice that their denture feels more stable during eating and speaking.
It is important to remember that snap-in dentures are removable. They are designed to provide greater retention while still allowing you to remove the denture for daily cleaning.
Who Is A Candidate For Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures may be an option for patients who are missing most or all of the teeth in an upper or lower arch and want more stability than a traditional denture provides.
They may also be appropriate for patients who:
- Already wear dentures that move or feel loose.
- Have difficulty eating because of denture movement.
- Want greater denture retention without choosing a fixed full-arch restoration.
- Prefer a removable option that can be taken out for cleaning.
- Have enough healthy bone to support dental implants.
- Are able to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental visits.
Bone volume, gum health, smoking, medical history and other factors can affect implant treatment. Our dentist will evaluate these factors before recommending implant-supported or snap-in dentures. Patients interested in a fixed alternative can also learn more about full-mouth implants.
Care And Maintenance
Implant-supported dentures require daily care of both the denture and the implants.
- Clean The Denture Daily: Remove and brush the denture as directed.
- Clean Around The Implants: Brush the implant attachments and surrounding gums carefully.
- Keep The Attachments Clean: Food and plaque can collect around the components that hold the denture in place.
- Attend Regular Checkups: Our team will monitor the implants, gums, denture fit and attachment system.
- Replace Worn Components When Needed: Attachment inserts or other parts may wear over time and can require replacement.
- Adjust The Denture As Needed: Changes in the gums and jawbone can affect denture fit over time, so relining or other adjustments may eventually be necessary.
Routine maintenance helps protect the implants while keeping the denture comfortable and secure.
How Many Implants Will I Need?
The number of implants depends on whether the upper or lower jaw is being treated, available bone and the amount of support needed.
- Upper: Our current upper implant-supported denture option uses four implants.
- Lower: A lower snap-in denture can be supported by two implants. Three or four implants may provide additional retention and stability depending on the treatment plan.
Our dentist will determine the appropriate number and position of implants after examining your mouth and reviewing your 3D imaging.
How Much Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Our current implant-supported denture pricing includes:
4 Implants With An Upper Or Lower Denture — $6,999
Plus the cost of any necessary extractions. This option uses four implants to provide increased denture retention and support.
2 Implants With A Lower Denture — $4,299
Plus the cost of any necessary extractions. This option uses two implants to provide greater stability than a traditional lower denture.
4 Upper And 4 Lower Implants With Dentures — $12,998
Plus the cost of any necessary extractions. This option provides implant support for both the upper and lower dentures.
Your final treatment plan depends on your examination, remaining teeth, bone anatomy and individual treatment needs.
Available Financing And Payment Options
Dental implants are an important investment, and financing can help make implant-supported and snap-in dentures more manageable by dividing treatment costs into monthly payments.
We work with multiple financing providers that may allow qualified patients to finance all or part of their treatment.
- Proceed Finance — Longer-term financing options are available, with payment terms of up to 96 months.
- CareCredit — Financing options include promotional plans and longer-term payment options of up to 60 months. A co-applicant may also be used when applying.
To learn more about implant-supported or snap-in dentures and available payment options, call 662-996-2211 to schedule your appointment with our dentists.
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