Snap-on Smile®

Patients who desire an affordable, instant transformation in their appearances may benefit from Snap-on Smile®. This innovative and custom-designed arch fits directly over the teeth, much like a whitening tray or clear orthodontic aligner. Made from impressions of each individual’s teeth, Snap-on Smile is comfortable, easy to wear, and can conceal a diverse range of cosmetic concerns. At the same time, it does not require any enamel removal or lengthy preparatory treatment. Most patients are good candidates for Snap-On Smile but it is important to consult with a cosmetic dentist before choosing this innovative treatment.

A Snap-On Smile Can provide an instant aesthetic enhancement.

Candidates for Snap-on Smile

Snap-on Smile can be a great option for patients who are unhappy with a wide range of cosmetic issues. These include:

Cracked or chipped teeth
Dental erosion
Irregularly sized or shaped teeth
Gaps between teeth
Misalignment
Missing teeth
Staining which does not respond to whitening

The treatment can be particularly beneficial for patients who have lost teeth and do not qualify for a traditional bridge or dental implants. For instance, individuals who have sustained jawbone deterioration or whose teeth are too damaged to support a bridge may be excellent candidates.

Snap-on Smile does not require any enamel reshaping or removal. It is often recommended to patients who want an affordable, conservative, and reversible treatment option.

Snap-On Smile can also temporarily replace missing teeth while patients wait for their jaws to heal after implant surgery. Additionally, many dentists recommend the appliance for those preparing for full cosmetic makeovers. Patients with decay or gum disease will first need to undergo treatment for these conditions.

Each device is completely customized to look natural and flattering.

The Treatment Process

Receiving a customized Snap-on Smile requires just two visits to your dentist’s office. At the first appointment, you will discuss specific cosmetic goals. Then the dentist will take impressions of your teeth to make sure the arch is a near-perfect fit. Finally, you will choose from various shades and styles to ensure a virtually identical match to your natural teeth.

Fabrication of each Snap-on Smile takes place at a proprietary lab and usually requires about three weeks. When the device is completed, you will return for a second appointment. If necessary, you can request slight adjustments though this is rarely needed thanks to the lab’s precision and high-quality materials.

Living with Snap-on Smile

Snap-on Smile is simple to use and easy to care for. You will need to remove the arch at night but can wear it the rest of the day – even when eating and drinking. Patients should be very meticulous about their dental hygiene when wearing Snap-on Smile. Because food and bacteria can become trapped under the prosthetic, it is especially important to rinse with water and brush after eating. Snap-On Smile should be treated with a specific cleaning solution which is available from your dentist.

Weighing Pros and Cons

Snap-on Smile is a risk-free way for most patients to enhance their appearances and self-confidence. However, it may not provide as comprehensive or lifelike results as some patients desire.

A Cost-Effective, Conservative Enhancement

One of the most notable advantages of Snap-on Smile is that it is very economical. Patients who could not otherwise afford smile makeovers can now achieve a dramatic enhancement. The arch can also be a great solution for those who are saving up for smile makeovers or who need to stage their treatments to fit their budgets. With Snap-on Smile, they can still enjoy beautiful grins while they wait.

In addition, Snap-On Smile does not require any dental reshaping or enamel removal so there is no risk of dental sensitivity or structural damage. The treatment process is also very quick, allowing patients to forgo multiple trips to the dentist for a series of multi-stage cosmetic procedures.

Strictly Cosmetic Results

At the same time, patients should be aware that there are some drawbacks to Snap-on Smile. The arch is not permanent, so it will eventually need to be replaced. In addition, though it is carefully designed to be completely natural-looking, it is not quite as realistic as other cosmetic options, such as porcelain veneers. Finally, it can be a great way to replace missing teeth, and it is often more stable than a removable bridge. However, fixed bridges and implant-supported restorations fully fill in the gap between missing teeth to prevent shifting dental alignment. Implants also protect a healthy jawbone by preventing bone recession. In contrast, Snap-on Smile primarily addresses the aesthetic effects of missing teeth.

Enhance Your Smile

To fully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of Snap-on Smile, patients should seek out a qualified cosmetic dentist. An experienced practitioner can evaluate your concerns, goals, lifestyle, and budget. This way you can make an informed decision and find the very best way to achieve a beautiful smile.