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Snap-On Dentures

The best of both worlds: dentures that snap securely onto dental implants for stability you can feel—with the convenience of removable teeth. A cost-effective path to confidence.

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Traditional dentures slip, click, and require messy adhesives. Fixed implant solutions like All-on-4 are excellent but represent a significant investment. Snap-on dentures bridge the gap—providing implant-supported stability at a more accessible price point.

Also called implant-supported overdentures or implant-retained dentures, snap-on dentures clip securely onto 2-4 dental implants, eliminating the frustrations of conventional dentures while costing significantly less than fixed alternatives.

If you want more than dentures but aren't ready for the full All-on-4 investment, snap-on dentures offer an excellent middle ground—and can even serve as a stepping stone to fixed teeth later. Learn about the key benefits and whether you're a good candidate.

What Are Snap-On Dentures?

Snap-on dentures are removable dentures that attach to dental implants using special connectors. They "snap" onto the implants for secure hold, then can be removed for cleaning.

Key Features:

  • Supported by 2-4 dental implants per arch
  • Removable for cleaning (unlike fixed All-on-4)
  • Use attachments (locators, balls, or bars) to connect
  • Significantly more stable than traditional dentures
  • Can be upgraded to fixed prosthesis later

Other Names:

Implant-supported overdentures • Implant-retained dentures • Locator dentures • Bar-retained dentures

Benefits of Snap-On Dentures

Why thousands of Canadians choose implant-supported overdentures.

Secure Hold

Snap-on dentures lock onto implants, eliminating the slipping, clicking, and embarrassing movement of traditional dentures.

More Affordable

With only 2-4 implants needed, snap-on dentures cost significantly less than fixed solutions like All-on-4.

Better Eating

Enjoy a wider variety of foods with confidence. While not quite as strong as fixed teeth, snap-on dentures dramatically improve chewing ability.

Easy Cleaning

Remove your dentures to clean them thoroughly—and clean around implants easily. Many patients prefer this to fixed prosthesis maintenance.

Bone Preservation

Even 2-4 implants stimulate your jawbone, slowing the bone loss that causes facial collapse with traditional dentures.

Upgradeable

Start with snap-on dentures, then upgrade to fixed All-on-4 or All-on-6 later if you choose. Your implants remain in place.

No Adhesives

Say goodbye to messy denture adhesives. Your dentures stay in place through implant connection—no glue needed.

Natural Feel

Many snap-on designs are palate-free (no roof coverage), improving comfort, taste sensation, and speech.

How Snap-On Dentures Work

1

The Implants

Two to four dental implants are placed in your jawbone. These heal over 3-6 months, becoming permanently anchored through osseointegration.

2

The Attachments

Special connectors are attached to your implants. Options include locator attachments, ball attachments, or bar attachments for maximum stability.

3

The Denture

Your denture is fabricated with corresponding components. When placed over your implants, it snaps securely into position—and removes easily for cleaning.

Snap-On Dentures vs. Other Options

Feature Traditional Dentures Snap-On Dentures All-on-4 (Fixed)
Stability Poor Good Excellent
Removable Yes Yes No
Implants needed 0 2-4 4
Cost $2,000-$4,000 $8,000-$15,000 $20,000-$30,000
Chewing function 25-40% 60-80% 90-95%
Bone preservation No Partial Yes
Adhesives needed Usually No No
Palate coverage Usually Often not No
Lifespan 5-8 years 10-15 years 15-25 years

Types of Snap-On Denture Systems

Locator-Retained

Most Common

Uses low-profile "locator" attachments on 2-4 implants. Simple, reliable system that's easy to maintain with replaceable wear components.

Ball-Retained

Traditional Option

Ball-shaped attachments on implants fit into socket housings in the denture. Well-established technology with good retention.

Bar-Retained

Maximum Stability

A custom metal bar connects 3-4 implants. The denture clips onto the bar. Most stable option, excellent for patients with bone concerns.

Snap-On Denture Costs in Canada

Treatment Price Range
2-Implant Lower Overdenture $8,000 – $12,000
4-Implant Lower Overdenture $12,000 – $18,000
4-Implant Upper Overdenture $14,000 – $20,000
Full Mouth (Upper + Lower) $22,000 – $38,000

Snap-on dentures cost 40-60% less than fixed implant solutions while providing dramatically better function than traditional dentures.

View detailed pricing

Who Are Snap-On Dentures Best For?

Snap-on dentures are ideal for patients who:
  • Want more than traditional dentures but aren't ready for fixed implants
  • Have budget constraints that make All-on-4 difficult
  • Prefer removable teeth for easier cleaning
  • Like the idea of upgrading later to fixed prosthesis
  • Have existing dentures they're unhappy with
  • Want to eliminate denture adhesives
  • Have adequate bone for 2-4 implants

Is Snap-On Right for You?

Snap-on dentures offer an excellent middle ground between traditional dentures and fixed implants. Find out if they're the right choice for your situation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Typically 2-4 implants per arch. Two implants work well for lower dentures; upper dentures usually need 4 for adequate support due to bone density differences.

Most specialists recommend removing them at night to let your gums rest and clean the attachments. However, you can wear them for special occasions.

The implants can last a lifetime. The overdenture typically lasts 10-15 years. Attachment components may need replacement every few years.

Often, yes. If you have 4 implants, you may be able to convert to a fixed prosthesis later. Discuss upgrade potential with your specialist before treatment.

They're different. Snap-on dentures provide good stability at lower cost but restore 60-80% of chewing function versus 90-95% for All-on-4. All-on-4 is fixed and feels more like natural teeth. Choose based on your priorities and budget.

Often not. Many designs are "horseshoe" shaped, leaving the palate open. This improves comfort, taste sensation, and speech compared to traditional full dentures.

Explore Other Implant Options

Find a Snap-On Denture Specialist

Connect with experienced implant specialists across Canada who can evaluate whether snap-on dentures are the right choice for your smile.

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