No matter how many teeth you’ve lost, dental implants can help you enjoy a complete smile again. When an entire arch of teeth is missing, it can be replaced with snap-on dentures or All-on-4. Which of these treatments is right for you? In order to find the answer to this question, it’s important to take a closer look at both options and see how they compare.
What are Snap-On Dentures?
Snap-on dentures are dentures that rely on two to six dental implant posts for support. The dentures will normally stay anchored in place thanks to the posts, but you can take them out at any time for routine cleanings. Compared to traditional dentures, snap-on dentures offer better stability as well as chewing power that is almost on par with that of natural teeth.
What is All-on-4?
All-on-4 is a special procedure that involves anchoring an entire arch of replacement teeth to four dental implant posts. The four posts are placed in specific areas of the jaw at carefully chosen angles in order to give your replacement teeth the support they need. Unlike snap-on dentures, the prosthesis used for All-on-4 will remain in your mouth at all times.
How Do Snap-On Dentures Compare to All-on-4 Dentures?
Snap-on dentures and All-on-4 share some similarities, but there are some important differences between them:
- In terms of cost, All-on-4 is often slightly more expensive than snap-on dentures.
- A snap-on denture for the upper arch can potentially affect the way you speak because it comes with an acrylic plate that partially covers the roof of your mouth. With All-on-4, this isn’t an issue.
- Both All-on-4 and snap-on dentures will let you eat virtually anything you want. However, because snap-on dentures can cover the roof of your mouth, they can affect the way food tastes.
- All-on-4 can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth. However, because snap-on dentures are removable, it’s generally easier to keep the area underneath them clean.
So, Should You Choose Snap-On Dentures or All-on-4?
Ultimately, the answer to this question will be different for each patient. It ultimately depends on your overall oral health needs as well as your personal preferences. To figure out for sure whether snap-on dentures or All-on-4 is the best choice for your smile, schedule a consultation with your periodontist. They can go over the pros and cons of each treatment in full detail in order to help you make a fully informed decision.
About the Author
Dr. David Handsman is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, which is where he earned his Master of Dental Surgery in periodontology. He currently holds Diplomate status with the American Board of Periodontology. His Worcester practice, Handsman & Haddad Periodontics, offers a variety of dental implant procedures, including All-on-4. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Handsman, visit his website or call (508) 753-5444.
