Missing teeth can be more than just an inconvenience – they can impact your health, appearance, and ability to enjoy life to the fullest. But what if there was a way to replace those teeth with a solution that feels more like your natural teeth? With benefits ranging from improved oral health to a more natural-looking smile, full-mouth dental implants offer many advantages over other traditional solutions. So what exactly are full dental implants, and how do they work? Let’s find out.
What are Full Mouth Dental Implants?
Full-mouth dental implants are a dental restoration procedure that involves replacing an entire arch of teeth using dental implants as anchors. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, which rely on adhesives or the support of neighbouring teeth, full mouth dental implants are securely implanted into the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for the replacement teeth.
With proper care and maintenance, full mouth dental implants offer a more natural-looking, long-lasting and functional solution for those seeking to replace the whole arch of missing teeth. While the process may require some time and patience, the final result can be a game-changer for those struggling with the discomfort and challenges of missing teeth. They also allow you to enjoy foods that you may be restricted from enjoying with dentures like steak etc.
When Should You Get a Full Mouth Dental Implant?
Deciding whether or not to get dental implants for a full mouth depends on multiple factors, and your dentist may be able to better assess if you are the right candidate for the procedure. However, there are some situations where full mouth dental implants may be recommended or preferred over other dental restoration options, such as:
- You are missing most or all of your teeth: If you have lost a significant number of teeth due to injury, decay, or other factors, full mouth dental implants may be the best option for restoring your smile and oral function.
- You have sufficient jawbone to support the implants: Dental implants rely on the surrounding bone to provide stability and support, so having enough healthy bone in the area where the implants will be placed is crucial. If you don’t have enough bone present, your dentist may recommend a bone graft or other procedures to build up the bone before proceeding with the implant placement.
- Your medical conditions and medications do not pose a risk: Certain medical conditions or medications can impact whether or not someone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. As such, make sure to inform your dentist about your specific medical conditions or medications before proceeding with the treatment.
- You do not have active severe gum disease or are not a smoker: Patients with severe gum disease or heavy smokers are not ideal candidates for dental implants. Gum disease can cause bone loss in the jaw and weaken the support for dental implants, while smoking can also negatively impact bone health and increase the risk of implant failure.
While full mouth dental implants generally have a high success rate, it is essential to keep in mind that, like any surgical procedure, they may carry certain risks and complications. In order to make an informed decision, make sure that you discuss the potential risks and benefits with your dentist beforehand, follow all post-operative care instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure.
Full Mouth Dental Implant Options
If you have already decided to move forward with full dental implants, you may be wondering about the different options available to you. Below are some of the popular full mouth dental implant options that we offer at Great Alpine Dental, each with its own advantages and considerations.
Full Arch Dental Implants
Full arch dental implants can be an excellent alternative for patients who may not have enough bone density to support traditional implants. The procedure involves placing just four implants to support an entire arch of teeth, two at the front of the jaw and two at the back. This means that you don’t need an individual implant for each missing tooth, making the process quicker and less invasive than traditional implants for those with multiple missing teeth.
The angled placement of the implants distributes the load evenly and provides maximum support and stability, making them suitable for areas with lower bone density. This technique not only eliminates the need for bone grafting procedures but also reduces the recovery time, making it a more convenient option for many patients.
This teeth replacement option is great for those seeking a quick solution to restore their smile. The procedure particularly appeals to patients who have suffered from extensive tooth loss, as it allows them to have a full set of 3D printed teeth within 3-5 days after implant placement. However, these are just temporary restorations, and are later replaced with high-impact acrylic or zirconia teeth for enhanced aesthetics and improved strength.
At Great Alpine Dental Advanced Aesthetics and Implants, we use our DSD protocol whereby you can trial your smile and see how it will look on you before actually committing to the treatment.
Other Options
In addition to full arch implants, other full mouth dental implant options may be suitable for patients with varying needs and preferences. Implant-supported dentures are similar to traditional dentures, but they are supported by implants rather than resting on the gum and offer a more secure and comfortable fit than traditional dentures. Whereas, mini dental implants are smaller in diameter than regular implants and may be a good choice for patients with limited bone density.
Be sure to discuss all the options with your dentist to determine which type of implant is best suited for your specific needs and situation.
How Does Full Mouth Dental Implant Work
Full mouth dental implants can help restore your smile and your ability to eat and speak comfortably if you are missing most or all of your teeth. The process typically involves several steps, starting with a detailed consultation and a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health by your dentist.
Initial Consultation
During the oral evaluation, the dentist will typically take X-rays and other imaging tests to evaluate the health of your jawbone and determine if you have enough bone density to support dental implants. They may take digital scans of your teeth and jawbone, which can help them with the planning and placement of the new implants. They will also review your overall oral health and medical history to determine if any factors may impact your eligibility for the procedure. Don’t forget to use this opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have about the procedure with your dentist.
Preparation
Before the dental implant procedure, your dentist will prepare a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include taking impressions of your teeth and gums, as well as creating a 3D X-ray model of your jawbone. Your dentist may also perform any necessary procedures to address any oral health issues, such as tooth extractions or gum disease treatment, to ensure the success of the implant procedure.
Placing the Implant
The next step is to place the implants into your jawbone. This is typically done using local anaesthesia to minimise any discomfort during the procedure. The dentist will use a local anaesthetic to numb the area and make small incisions in your gums to access the jawbone. Then, they will carefully create small openings in the bone to place the dental implants. After the implants are placed and secured, the dentist may use a healing cap to cover them and allow the area to heal properly.
During the healing process, temporary teeth will be fitted to the implant to help you maintain your normal speech and eating habits until the permanent teeth are fitted.
Recovering from the Surgery
Following the implant procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. The dentist will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your implants during the healing process, which may include dietary restrictions, pain management, and oral hygiene practices. While it may take some time to adjust to your new teeth, with proper care, they can last you a long time.
Take the First Step Towards a Beautiful, Functional Smile with Full Mouth Dental Implants
Full mouth dental implants can be a life-changing solution for those who have lost most or all of their teeth. The process may involve several steps, but with careful planning and guidance from a compassionate dental practitioner, you can achieve a healthy, functional, and natural-looking smile. If you are considering full mouth dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Great Alpine Dental Advanced Aesthetics & Implants to discuss your options and determine if this procedure is right for you. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer – book a consultation with us and take the first step towards a new and improved smile today!
