Full Arch Implants: Advantages, Disadvantages, and What to Expect During Dental Treatment

What are Full Arch Implants?

Full Arch Implants is an innovative dental treatment that can replace your missing or damaged teeth with a full arch of permanent, natural-looking implants in as little as one visit. It’s also known as same-day dentures, Implant Supported Dentures, or All-on-Four ®, and it offers many advantages over traditional implant treatments. With Full Arch Implants, you can expect to have the look and feel of natural teeth quicker than ever before.

The entire procedure involves placing four strategically placed titanium implants into the jawbone to provide support for the arch of new replacement teeth. This type of implant surgery has been proven to be safe and effective for those who qualify for it, but there are some important factors to consider before committing to this type of treatment. This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Full Arch Implants and what you should expect during dental treatment.

Is Full Arch Implants the same as dental implants?

No, Full Arch Implants is not the same as dental implants. This type of treatment involves a series of small titanium implants that are strategically placed in the jawbone to provide support for an entire arch of new replacement teeth. This differs from traditional dental implants which involve placing a single implant into the jawbone for each tooth being replaced.

Who is a good candidate?

Full Arch Implants can be an ideal solution for patients suffering from severe tooth loss, bone loss, or periodontal disease that cannot be treated with traditional dentures. Patients who may be considering Full Arch Implants should ensure they have enough bone density to support the implants, as the implant surgery requires healthy bone mass to ensure that the titanium posts can properly fuse to the jawbone and provide stable, long-term support for the new teeth.

Ideal candidates are those who have healthy gums but need more stability than what conventional dentures offer. To determine if you’re a good candidate for this treatment, it’s important to speak with our cosmetic dentist about your individual needs and goals so they can recommend the best option for you. At Smile Standard your consultations are always free. Reach out to us today at 480-616-2222 to set up an appointment.

Who is not a good candidate?

Patients who require extensive dental work before implant placement, such as those with gum disease or inadequate jaw bone density, are not typically good candidates for Full Arch Implant surgery. Additionally, this procedure is not recommended if the patient smokes or has a medical condition that affects their ability to heal properly. Our dentist will be able to evaluate your medical history and provide advice on whether or not Full Arch Implant surgery is the right option for you. If you’re not a good candidate, there may be other dental solutions available to achieve your desired outcome.

Is Full Arch Implants a major surgery?

No, the Full Arch Implant technique is considered a minor surgical procedure. It typically takes just one appointment to have all four implants placed at once and the patient can leave with a temporary set of teeth the same day. The recovery time varies from person to person but generally, most patients can resume normal activities within 48 hours of their procedure. However, it’s important for patients to follow our dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and successful results. With proper care and maintenance, Full Arch Implants can last up to 20 years or more!

What is the Full Arch Implants dental procedure?

Full Arch Implants is a revolutionary way to replace missing teeth. It’s an implant-supported denture solution that replaces the entire upper or lower arch of teeth using just four implants. The procedure is minimally invasive and requires only one surgery for full arch rehabilitation, which makes it much faster than traditional dental implants. This type of treatment also eliminates the need for bone grafting, as the implants are placed at different angles and depths to ensure optimal stability.

Typically, the procedure is about two and a half hours for each arch. We can place your Full Arch Implants on your lower, upper, or both arch at once. While our dentist can make it appear easy, it is however a complicated procedure that can be completed fairly quickly. The procedure of receiving Full Arch Implants can be broken down into four stages:

The first step is a thorough examination in which we review your medical documents, your current issues, whether you have dentures, your facial structure needs as well as any other factors that might be considered when placing implants.
The next step typically involves CT scans which are 3D photographs of the jawbone. The scans reveal the location of the new teeth and provide us with crucial information on where the bone nerves and sinuses are to support the implants.
The third step involves making a computer model of the implants and placing them digitally onto the jawbone at the most appropriate position to provide the greatest support from your new teeth. Implants can be adjusted according to your needs and we then fabricate the new teeth to meet your requirements.
Finally, the fourth and most crucial step is to undergo the oral procedure. In the course of surgery, we’ll administer anesthesia to you and then place the dental implants in the jawbone to secure the new set of teeth in their place.

How many teeth are in Full Arch Implants?

Full Arch Implants can replace up to 12 teeth in the upper and lower jaw. The number of implants used depends on the patient’s anatomy and goals for treatment. Your dentist will be able to provide more information about what is best for you.

Are Full Arch Implants better than dentures?

Full Arch Implants are generally considered to be a better option than dentures for people missing all or most of their teeth. Full Arch Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing secure and long-lasting support for replacement teeth. They also help preserve the jawbone structure, as dentures can cause bone loss if not regularly replaced. Additionally, Full Arch Implants provide a more natural look and feel than dentures, making them a top choice among many individuals looking to restore missing teeth and build a new smile.

Full Arch Implants offers many benefits over traditional denture solutions, including:

Improved function: They restore the bite force of natural teeth, allowing you to eat normally and speak clearly.
Increased comfort: Unlike dentures, they feel just like real teeth and won’t slip or shift in your mouth.
Enhanced appearance: The natural look blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile, restoring an aging face to a more youthful appearance.
Aesthetic Benefits: They provide a natural appearance that closely resembles your original teeth and can help restore your facial structure and jawline.
Long-lasting results: They are designed to last for decades, with proper care and maintenance.
Convenient placement: Unlike traditional implant solutions that require multiple surgeries, Full Arch Implants can often be placed in a single appointment without the need for additional bone grafting.
Permanent Solution: They are much more secure than dentures, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence.
Quick recovery time: Unlike traditional implant procedures that require several months of healing time, Full Arch Implants can offer results within a few days.

Is getting Full Arch Implants painful?

Many patients report little to no pain during the Full Arch Implant process. The surgery itself is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation and any discomfort can be managed with post-operative medication. While some swelling, bruising, and soreness are common after any dental procedure, these should resolve within a week or two. The benefits of Full Arch Implants, such as improved chewing ability and an enhanced smile, are often worth any temporary discomfort.

What is the recovery period like?

The recovery period for Full Arch Implants typically varies from patient to patient depending on their overall health and the complexity of their surgery. Most patients can expect to take anywhere from one to five days off of work for recovery. During the first few weeks after surgery, it is normal for patients to experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness. It is important to take any medications or painkillers prescribed by your doctor during this period to manage discomfort.

Additionally, you should avoid strenuous activities or exercise during the healing process. After the first few weeks, you should be able to return to regular activities and dental hygiene habits as usual. With proper care and maintenance, Full Arch Implants can last for many years with minimal risk of damage or failure.

How do you maintain Full Arch Implants?

The most important way to maintain your Full Arch Implants is through proper dental hygiene. Just like with natural teeth, you should brush twice a day and floss regularly to help prevent plaque buildup and decay around the implant posts. Additionally, make sure to attend regular checkups and cleanings with our dentist or hygienist so they can check the implant posts and surrounding gums for any signs of damage or infection.

It’s also important to avoid hard and sticky foods that can cause excess wear and tear on the implants, as well as tobacco products, which have been linked to higher rates of gum disease and other oral health issues.

Is Full Arch Implants more cost-effective than other solutions?

Full Arch Implants are a more cost-effective solution than other teeth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. It is important to note that the costs can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the extent of the treatment and the type of materials used for the prosthesis.

However, you can expect to save money with Full Arch Implants compared to other solutions. In addition, the long-term cost savings associated with Full Arch Implants can be significant since they require less maintenance and replacement over time. Dental insurance may also cover some of the costs involved in Full Arch Implant treatments. It is important to speak to a specialist at Smile Standard and your insurance provider for more information. Contact Smile Standard today at 480-616-2222 to discuss your options.

Are there any disadvantages with Full Arch Implants?

Though Full Arch Implants have several advantages, there are some drawbacks to consider. As with any type of dental implant, Full Arch Implants may cause discomfort or pain during the procedure and recovery period. Depending on the amount of bone available in your jaw, there may be additional treatments necessary to prepare for the implants, such as bone grafts or sinus lifts. Additionally, you may need to take antibiotics before and after the procedure to reduce your risk of infection.

Conclusion

Overall, Full Arch Implants provides an effective solution to tooth loss that restores comfort, function, and a natural aesthetic. If you are considering Full Arch Implants, make sure to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure before making a decision. It is also important to follow all post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and long-term success with this treatment. With good care, Full Arch Implants can be a secure and reliable solution for missing teeth.

Additionally, patients who have received Full Arch Implants should make sure to attend regular follow-up appointments with our dentist. During these visits, the dentist will examine the implant area for any signs of infection or damage that may need to be addressed.

It is also important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing daily, to ensure the long-term success of your Full Arch Implants. Additionally, avoid biting on hard objects and crunchy foods that may damage your prosthesis or cause discomfort. If you experience any pain or discomfort after receiving your Full Arch Implants, contact our dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation.