If you need to replace all of your upper or lower teeth or all the teeth in your mouth, full arch dental implants could be an option. Unlike removable dentures, implants are secured in the jaw as a long-term replacement for missing teeth.[1]
While traditional dental implants can replace a single tooth or several teeth in a row, full arch implants use a fixed bridge to replace an entire row of missing teeth.[2] Depending on the individual, this may involve placing 4 or 6 implants to support all the teeth in each arch.
Dental implants aren't for everyone. Your dentist will explain what the procedure involves, what the possible risks are and what dental implants cost during your initial consultation, so you can decide if it's right for you.
Your dentist will also check your medical history and assess your oral health and your jaws to see if you are a suitable candidate for implants. You need to be in good general health with healthy gums to be considered for this treatment.[2]
If you've been told in the past that you are not suitable for standard implants, you may still be a candidate for full arch implants, as these implants are positioned at 45-degree angles in the jaw. This also avoids the need for bone grafting.
Your dentist will explain the steps of the procedure so you know what to expect. Unlike traditional implant treatments that can take many months to complete, full arch implants can sometimes be completed in one or two visits.
Every surgical procedure carries risks, and your dentist will make sure you understand the possible complications and side-effects before you agree to the treatment.
For dental implants, this may include infections or injuries of the mouth during treatment and possible sinus problems for implants placed in the upper jaw.[1] Risks will be lower if you use a qualified and experienced dentist.
Recovery from dental implants may take several weeks. You may experience pain, swelling or bleeding around the implant sites, which can be managed using medication or by applying pressure to stop the bleeding. You may also be advised to eat soft foods only after the treatment to help your mouth heal.[1]
If you don't think full arch dental implants are the choice for you, you could also replace all of your teeth with dentures.[1]
Full dentures can replace a whole arch of teeth, while partial dentures can replace several missing teeth. However, dentures do not offer support for the jaw and face in the same way as implants, and they may require making changes to your diet.[3]
Schedule a consultation for dental implants in Brisbane
To find out more about full arch dental implants and other options for replacing missing teeth, book a free initial consultation with our dentists in Brisbane CBD.
Book online or call the Face Value Dental team on (07) 3221 0677.
[1] Healthdirect. Dental implant [Online] 2017 [Accessed December 2018] Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-implant
[2] Canadian Dental Association. Dental Implants - Replacing Missing Teeth [Online] 2006 [Accessed December 2018] Available from: http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/procedures/dental_implants/
[3] Healthdirect. Denture fitting [Online] 2017 [Accessed December 2018] Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/denture-fitting