Are you contemplating replacing a few teeth or an entire upper or lower set? Dental implants emerge as the premier choice for tooth replacement, offering the flexibility to replace a single tooth or all teeth according to your specific requirements. At Rolling Plains Dentistry, your oral health takes precedence, and we are committed to assisting you in selecting the optimal treatment for your missing teeth.Understanding Full Arch Dental Implants
A dental implant acts as an artificial tooth root, surgically implanted into the jawbone, providing a stable solution for missing teeth. Typically crafted from titanium, a biocompatible material, the implant seamlessly integrates with the bone, creating a robust foundation. In cases of single-tooth replacement, a crown is attached to the implant for a natural appearance and functionality.
However, when addressing the replacement of an entire set of teeth, typically four implants are required to support dentures. Known as full-arch dental implants or implant-supported dentures, these provide a sturdy base for replacement teeth. Though serving the same purpose, there are slight distinctions between these two types of replacement teeth.
Varieties of Full Arch Implants
Full arch implants manifest in various forms. In one scenario, a full arch may entail replacing four teeth with a single implant. In other instances, a full arch implant may involve replacing up to six teeth simultaneously.
Implant-Supported Dentures
One variant of full arch dental implants includes implant-supported dentures. These dentures are anchored with a few dental implants surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a foundation for the dentures to affix to. Depending on preference, implant-supported dentures can be removable or permanent. Removable dentures can be taken out for cleaning, while permanent dentures remain in place and are cleaned like natural teeth.
All-on-4 Treatment®
Another type of full arch dental implant treatment, known as All-on-4, involves placing four dental implants into the jawbone at specific angles and positions to support a complete arch denture. The All-on-4 treatment offers a permanent denture that can only be removed by your dentist. This eliminates the need for a bone graft procedure and is suitable for patients with some degree of jawbone loss.
Steps Involved in Dental Implant Procedure
The process of full arch dental implant treatment unfolds in four stages:
Initial Consultation
The journey toward full-arch dental implants commences with an initial meeting with an implant dentist. During this visit, the dentist assesses your oral health, discusses your preferences, and determines your suitability for the procedure. Tooth extractions may also be performed to remove any broken teeth in preparation for implant placement.
Implant Placement
If deemed suitable, the next step is implant placement surgery. Titanium implants are carefully placed into your jawbone, with the number of implants varying based on the chosen full arch implant type.
Temporary Teeth Placement
Following implant placement, temporary replacement teeth are attached to the implants. These temporary teeth enable eating and speaking while the implants integrate with the bone.
Final Replacement Teeth
Once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, usually after several months, your final replacement teeth are fabricated and firmly attached. These new teeth resemble, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Schedule An Appointment
Full arch dental implants offer redemption for individuals who have lost some or all of their teeth. This option enables anchoring a full arch of teeth on just four or six implants. Although time-consuming, the process ensures normalcy once the teeth are implanted. If you require teeth replacement, contact Rolling Plains Dentistry to determine your suitability for full arch implants. Contact us today at 940-663-5353.
