Implant overdenture (snap-on denture)
A typical case, in 6 steps over 4 visits. Typically back to routine in 2 to 3 days after implant surgery; the implants typically take 3 to 6 months to fuse. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Implant overdenture (snap-on denture) · Visit 1
Preparing the mouth
Any decayed or damaged teeth are removed, and bone is grafted where it has been lost. Healing may take a few months.
Source: clevelandclinic.org
Steps in a typical case
Preparing the mouth
Any decayed or damaged teeth are removed, and bone is grafted where it has been lost. Healing may take a few months.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Healing denture
A healing denture is worn in the meantime.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Placing the implants
A surgeon places the dental implants into the jawbone.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Implants fuse with the bone
The implants typically take 3 to 6 months to fuse with the jawbone, while the healing denture is worn.
Visit 2 · Source 1
Impressions
Once the implants have healed, impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab to make the new denture.
Visit 3 · Source 1
Fitting the denture
The new denture is attached to the implants, so it snaps on and stays in place until taken out for cleaning.
Visit 4 · Source 1
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically several visits over a few months: any extractions or grafts, implant surgery, impressions and the fitting. Source 1 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically back to routine in 2 to 3 days after implant surgery; the implants typically take 3 to 6 months to fuse. Source 1 |
| How long it lasts | Typically the implants can last a lifetime with care; the overdenture is typically replaced every 15 to 20 years. Source 1 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: cleaning the denture at least twice a day, soaking it in denture solution overnight and regular dental visits. Source 1 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes 4 visits. How many would I need, and what happens at each one?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D6110, D6111).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Implant-supported dentures. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24303-implant-supported-dentures. Accessed November 10, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D6110, D6111.