Brockley Dental Blog, Dental Implants, Dentures, Family Dentistry, Mini Dental Implants, Restorative Dentistry

Snap-On Dentures 101: Understanding the Modern Approach to Tooth Replacement

Snap-On Dentures in Butler, PA | Implant-Supported Dentures

Many people have experienced the struggles and discomfort of traditional dentures. In fact, according to 2020 U.S. Census data, over 40 million Americans use dentures. From having them slip out at the worst moments to dealing with the nuisance of sticky adhesives, the challenges of dentures can be endless. The good news is that the world of dentistry is constantly evolving, and snap-on dentures have emerged as a modern upgrade to traditional dentures.

Snap-On Dentures: An Overview

True to their name, snap-on dentures belong to the category of overdentures that securely attach to dental implants using a “snapping” mechanism. At Brockley Dental Center, we use innovative mini dental implants to improve patient outcomes. These implants are placed into the jawbone, offering unmatched security.

Unlike traditional dentures that rest directly on the gums, these more modern overdentures provide a much firmer grip, giving wearers the confidence they truly deserve. Think of them as a hybrid solution, merging the benefits of dentures and implants.

Wondering if snap-on dentures are right for you? We invite you to come in for a consultation at Brockley Dental Center. During this visit, we will determine if you are a good candidate for mini implants and snap-on dentures. Factors like the condition of existing teeth, gum health, jawbone density, and personal preferences play a role in determining suitability.

Why Snap-On Dentures Are a Preferred Choice

Snap-On Dentures in Butler, PA | Implant-Supported DenturesIf you’re thinking about making the switch to snap-on dentures, sometimes referred to as implant-retained dentures, it’s important to understand all the benefits they can offer:

  1. Stability and security: Because they attach to four to eight mini implants, there are no more unexpected and embarrassing slips.
  2. No more adhesives: If you’ve worn traditional dentures, you understand the struggle of messy and often unreliable adhesives. Say goodbye to these pastes because you won’t need them anymore!
  3. Elevated comfort: Snap-on dentures are meticulously crafted to fit like a glove. Their custom and secure fit means less slippage, fewer sores, and a more natural feel.
  4. Better eating experience: Love apples? Fresh vegetables? Or perhaps a good steak? These dentures don’t waver or wobble, making chewing “a piece of cake,” literally and figuratively!
  5. Boosted self-confidence: Freedom from constantly worrying about your dentures behaving unpredictably will naturally boost your self-confidence.

Traditional Dentures vs. Snap-On Dentures

While traditional dentures are a tried-and-true option, they also come with their fair share of challenges. This is where the advantages of snap-on dentures using mini dental implants shine.

  • Size: Traditional dentures can be bulky and uncomfortable due to their large base. They also cover your entire upper palate, making speaking, eating, and tasting your food more difficult. Snap-on dentures don’t use as much pink material because of the support they get from the mini implants.
  • Treatment timeline: Mini implants can often be placed in a single visit, and recovery is so quick you’ll be back to your normal routine in just a day or two.
  • Durability: Traditional dentures are frequently removed, which increases the chance of damage or loss. They must also be continuously adjusted and offer no defense against further bone or tissue loss. Meanwhile, the single-piece titanium design of mini implants is incredibly strong. It also fulfills the function of the tooth root by stimulating the jawbone, helping to protect the surrounding bone and tissue from further loss.

Worried About Cost?

High-quality dental solutions often come with a significant price tag, and many assume snap-on dentures are out of reach. However, Brockley Dental Center is committed to ensuring everyone can access the best dental solutions. We’ll work with you to navigate the often-confusing world of dental insurance and ensure you get the most from your benefits. And thanks to our partnerships with multiple financing companies, we can help you select a payment structure that works for your budget.

Make an Appointment Today!

If you’ve been on the fence about replacing your traditional dentures, now is the time to consider snap-on dentures. With any dental procedure, an informed decision is the best decision. When you visit Brockley Dental Center for your consultation, we will answer your questions, discuss your concerns, and make sure you are making the best decision for you.

At our practice, we believe everyone deserves to smile without inhibitions. Schedule your consultation today, and let us be your partner on the journey toward a confident and secure smile.

Donald B. Brockley, DMD

Dr. Brockley earned his doctorate degree in Dental Medicine from the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine in 1972. He is a second generation dentist and a legacy of the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine where his father, Dr. Charles R. Brockley earned his doctorate in general dentistry in the year 1927. While attending the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine, he held the office of Class Secretary for his graduating class. Following dental school, he chose to do his residency training at Wilmington Medical Center in Wilmington, Delaware, with a focus on research. Upon completing his residency, Dr. Brockley enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War Era as a Naval Officer. Dr. Brockley opened his own private practice 1975 in Butler, PA a historic town just 34 miles north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dr. Brockley held the office of President of the Butler County Dental Society. After many years of practice, Dr. Brockley realized that fear is the #1 reason why people do not visit their dentist regularly. Therefore, he made it his mission to find an alternative way to practice (and to help his patients overcome this fear). This alternative was through Sedation Dentistry. In 1996 he became trained in Conscious Oral Sedation. This technique allowed him to treat fearful patients by gently putting them to sleep with the aid of a pill, not needle IV sedation which was the popular treatment at that time. Dr. Brockley received his dental training at the following institutions: University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA Tufts University, School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA University of North Carolina, School of Dentistry, Raleigh, NC Mini Dental Implant Training Centre, Buffalo, NY. Due to the high number of patients who are diabetic in his practice, his next goal was to understand the impact of Diabetes in Dentistry. Due to the subset of Diabetic patients in his practice who had similar recurring oral and systemic health problems, special attention became warranted. This led to a different standard of care and treatment for patients whose health was compromised by diabetes. Early detection, observation, evaluation and treatment to eradicate infection plays a major role in maintaining oral health for diabetic patients. Poorly managed treatment for diabetic patients has been shown to lead to a higher risk of uncontrolled gum disease and vice versa, making prevention of gum disease the #1 priority for this subset of patients. Dr. Brockley’s research on dentistry for diabetics led him to his next specialization: the treatment and eradication of gum disease. His aim has been to change the the treatment of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. For this reason, he designed a radically different protocol to the Soft Tissue Management (STM) program. STM treats the symptoms of gum disease, and more importantly, the underlying cause of gum disease, bacteria. Studies have shown that gum disease affects 80% of American adults. However, Dr. Brockley has observed that more than 90% of his baby boomer patients have gum disease. His unique STM protocol has shown significant success within his patient population. With patient knowledge, understanding, and cooperation, Dr. Brockley is able to arrest and manage gum disease in his practice. After perfecting his procedures for crowns, bridges, partials and dentures to replace missing teeth, the introduction of Small Diameter Implants (also known as SDI or Mini Dental Implants) into his practice has revolutionized the way Dr. Brockley practices cosmetic dentistry. Small Diameter Implants provide the possibility of full mouth restoration, multiple teeth restoration, or single tooth restoration. Small Diameter Implants can be implemented in all types of tooth and bone conditions, in all ages, and in all types of health conditions. Dr. Brockley uses Small Diameter Implants to restore chewing ability and create beautiful smiles, which ultimately changes peoples’ lives. Dr. Brockley is the proud owner and operator of the first Mini Dental Implant Center of America in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Dr. Brockley has achieved Diplomate status in the International Academy of Mini Dental Implants. He is the President Emeritus of the Butler County Dental Society. Dr. Brockley was also a Lieutenant in the US Navel Dental Core. He is a a lifetime member of the Delta Sigma Dental Fraternity, and he was the Class Secretary for the University of Pittsburgh Dental School. Dr. Brockley likes to spend time with his family at home or while traveling, has been an avid scuba diver since 1980, and describes himself as a “just okay” golfer.

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