Full Arch Dental Implants
Your permanent solution to missing teeth
Traditional dentures can be inconvenient, painful and unstable. And while dental implants are an excellent choice for single tooth replacements, on the scale of a full arch, they can be expensive and complicated. However, putting these two treatments together yields a solution that works for nearly everyone: implant supported prosthesis. During this treatment, typically four to six dental implants are placed in the jaw and a full dental bridge or prosthesis is attached to them, giving you a full row of teeth in just one appointment.
Key Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures
- Cost: This treatment can sometimes be done with just four dental implants per arch and it is much more affordable than placing an entire row of implants.
- Immediate Results: Patients can often receive a full set of functional, aesthetically pleasing teeth in just one day.
- Reduced Need for Bone Grafting: The strategic implant placement often eliminates the necessity for time-consuming and costly bone grafting procedures.
- Improved Stability: Four to six implants provide robust support for the entire arch, offering superior stability compared to traditional dentures.
- Enhanced Comfort and Function: The fixed nature of implants allows for improved chewing ability and speech, closely mimicking natural teeth.
- Long-lasting Solution: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, offering a permanent solution to tooth loss.
The Evaluation Stage
What to Expect During Consultation
When you visit our office for a consultation, our skilled periodontists will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health. We’ll assess your bone density, gum health, and overall oral condition using advanced imaging techniques such as 3D CT scans. This thorough evaluation allows us to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure and to plan your treatment with precision.
During this appointment, we’ll discuss your specific needs, concerns, and aesthetic goals. We’ll explain the process in detail, including its benefits and how it compares to other tooth replacement options. Our team will address any questions you may have, ensuring you feel fully informed and comfortable with the proposed treatment plan. We’ll also discuss the expected timeline, costs, and any preparatory steps needed before the procedure.
The Treatment Process
What to Expect During the Treatment
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, with sedation options available for your comfort. Our periodontist will begin by carefully extracting any remaining damaged teeth and preparing the jawbone for implant placement. Using advanced surgical guides, we’ll precisely position four titanium implants in your jaw – two vertical implants in the front and two angled implants in the back.
Once the implants are securely in place, we’ll attach a temporary set of teeth to the implants. This immediate loading allows you to leave our office with a functional, natural-looking smile on the same day as your surgery. The temporary prosthesis is designed to be comfortable and aesthetically pleasing while your implants integrate with your jawbone over the next few months.
Recovery and Aftercare
What to Expect for Recovery
Recovery from the procedure is generally quicker and more comfortable than traditional implant methods. In the days following your surgery, you may experience some swelling and mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses. We’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and comfort.
For the first few weeks, you’ll need to follow a soft food diet to allow your implants to integrate with your jawbone properly. This integration process, known as osseointegration, typically takes about 3-6 months. During this time, you’ll be able to function normally with your temporary teeth, but it’s important to avoid hard or crunchy foods that could put excessive pressure on the healing implants.
We’ll schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to your temporary prosthesis. Once osseointegration is complete, we’ll replace your temporary teeth with a permanent, custom-made prosthesis that’s even more durable and natural-looking.
Most patients find that they can return to their normal daily activities within a few days of the procedure. As you adjust to your new teeth, you may notice significant improvements in your ability to speak clearly and eat comfortably. Many of our patients report a boost in confidence and overall quality of life as they enjoy their new, fully functional smile.
At our periodontal practice, we’re committed to providing exceptional care throughout your full arch treatment process. Our expertise in advanced implant procedures ensures that you’ll receive the highest quality care, resulting in a beautiful, functional smile that can last a lifetime. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how full arch dental implants can transform your oral health and confidence.