Have Missing or Crooked Teeth? Consider a Snap-On Smile

There are numerous restorative dental options, so you may be overwhelmed when looking for the one that suits you best. One option to look into is the patented Snap-On Smile. These dental appliances can work for people with

• Worn incisal edges
• Discolored teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Missing teeth

These oral appliances look like an Invisalign tray since they slide over your existing teeth. However, instead of being clear, they are made of a shaded crystallized acetyl resin so that they completely transform your smile. Although they can be made as little as .5 mm thick, they are durable and can last several years depending on how well you take care of them.

What Are the Benefits of Snap-on Smiles?

While you'll need to weigh all the pros and cons with your dentist, these are the three main benefits of Snap-on Smiles.

1. They Are More Affordable Than Implants

While dental implants are amazing restorations, a single tooth can often cost between $2,400 and $3,000. While this cost range covers the implant itself, it may not cover the cost of the procedure or the cost of any bone grafts you may need to support the implant.

Keep in mind that your insurance may only a cover a portion of the implant expense; other insurance policies don't cover these restorations at all! In short, it can be incredibly costly if you want to replace lots of missing teeth.

On the other hand, Snap-on Smiles can usually range between $1,000 and $3,500 for an entire upper or lower arch. Some dentists may be able to make these appliances for as little as $500.

2. You'll Have a Nicer Smile Sooner

With other restorative options, you may have to go in for multiple appointments. For example, with dentures, it usually takes four appointments for the doctor to take impressions, set up bite blocks, seat wax try-in dentures, and seat the final acrylic denture.

With implants, you could need multiple appointments if you need to get a bone graft first. And if you opt for snap-on or screw-retained dentures, it can take time for implants to heal before the dentist can place the abutments and the final denture on top.

If you have crooked teeth, it could take months or years (meaning lots of appointments) to undergo complete orthodontic treatment.

With Snap-On Smiles, you will typically go in for only two appointments. You can fix missing teeth, crooked teeth, and discolorations a lot sooner.

3. They Don't Require Enamel Reduction

Veneers can be fantastic restorations, but some people balk at the enamel reduction. For veneers to fit, your dentist needs to shave a very small amount of enamel off. Enamel cannot grow back; this is a permanent change, so if you indecisive, then a Snap-On Smile would be a safer bet.

Even if you are ready for veneers, they can be contraindicated for people with:

• Strong bite patterns or bruxism (teeth grinding) since excessive force can damage or pop off the veneers
• Weak teeth or large fillings since there's an inadequate amount of enamel to shave down and support the veneers
• Recurring cavities since the dentist would have to remove the veneer to treat the decay
• Tooth sensitivity

If you have one or more of these contraindications, then a Snap-On Smile may be a better option to consider.

How Can You Get Started With Snap-On Smiles?

Make an appointment with your dentist so you can consult with him or her about your options. If you want a Snap-On Smile, then your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and have you pick a tooth shade for the entire arch.

The dental office will send the shade and impression to a dental lab where technicians will construct the Snap-On Smile. At your next appointment, the dentist will have you try on the appliance, and if you're happy with it, you are good to go! There's no need for enamel prepping

Contact Michael G. Landy DDS for more information about Snap-On Smiles and other cosmetic dentistry options.