The term click denture sometimes causes confusion that the denture actually clicks onto the implants like a magnet. In many situations, this is not the case.
In our practice, we work with two different systems. The first system has a bar construction, where there is a bar system on the implants over which the denture is worn. You attach the denture over this bar, which makes it secure.
The second system uses locators, where there are essentially snap buttons on the implants, which you can 'snap' into place when inserting the denture.
It can happen that the springs of both systems stretch a bit over time, causing it to become a bit looser.
If you notice that the snap denture is becoming looser, contact the practice to schedule an appointment with our dental technician.
If the (snap) denture starts to become loose, there can be some play on the denture, and it often no longer fits well on the jaw or the implants. If this is the case, there is a risk that when biting incorrectly during eating, too much tension is placed on the snap system or the denture itself, which can cause it to break or become damaged.
Therefore, it is important to raise the alarm in time if you notice that the denture is no longer fitting properly.
When placing the snap denture, we always emphasize to the patient that it is important to place the denture in the mouth with the hands in the correct position. Unfortunately, we still notice that the denture is often placed in the mouth with the hands, but then bitten into the system with the teeth. This is often seen as easier, but it increases the risk of damaging the snap system and also causes it to wear out faster.
In our practice, we want to see every patient, including denture patients, for a check-up at least once a year with the dentist or implantologist. This way, we can check the quality of the denture as well as the gums and the snap system. We can better notice if the dentures are no longer fitting well and refer to our dental technician in the short term if adjustments are needed.