- Full mouth dental implants are a procedure to replace all teeth in one or both jaws by placing several implants to act as artificial tooth roots, which then support a full set of replacement teeth, such as a dental bridge or denture. This treatment is a long-lasting solution that can restore function, appearance, and confidence, often using techniques like All-on-4 or All-on-6. The process involves implant placement, a healing period for integration with the jawbone, and finally, the attachment of the custom-made replacement teeth.
What it is
- A solution for full tooth loss: This treatment is designed for people who are missing most or all of their teeth in one or both jaws.
- Restores function and appearance: It provides a natural look, feel, and function, similar to your own teeth.
- Uses implants as roots: The implants, typically titanium posts, are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as the foundation for the new teeth.
- Supports a full set of teeth: Replacement teeth, often in the form of a bridge or custom-made denture, are then attached to the implants.
- Immediate loading in case of full mouth dental implants involve placing implants and a fixed set of teeth on the same day or within a few days, providing a faster alternative to traditional methods. This “immediate loading” approach is possible through techniques like basal implants, which use a denser part of the jawbone, and sometimes zygomatic implants, which are anchored to the cheekbone. The procedure allows for both full mouth rehabilitation with a temporary or permanent bridge, restoring a smile’s aesthetics and function much faster than conventional methods.
How it works
- Procedure: Implants are placed immediately after the removal of existing teeth. A temporary or permanent set of fixed teeth can then be attached, often within 72 hours to 5 days.
- Immediate loading: This technique allows for immediate function because the implants are secured in the denser, more stable cortical (basal) bone, providing stability right away.
- Alternative implant placement: Zygomatic implants are a specialized option for patients with insufficient upper jawbone density. They are longer implants that anchor into the cheekbone, bypassing the need for bone grafting in the upper jaw.
Advantages
- Faster results: Patients get their new teeth in a significantly shorter timeframe compared to traditional implants, which can take months for the bone to heal.
- Aesthetics and function: It allows for the immediate restoration of your smile, enabling you to eat and speak with confidence sooner.
- Less invasive: In many cases, it can be a graft-free procedure, eliminating the need for bone grafting and the associated healing time.
- For various bone conditions: Techniques like basal and zygomatic implants make the treatment suitable for patients with poor bone density or volume, which was previously a barrier to conventional implants.
What to expect
- Consultation: An initial consultation is crucial to assess your oral health through exams and imaging, and to discuss the expected outcome.
- Procedure time: The surgery for one jaw might take 45 minutes to an hour. The entire process, including teeth placement, can take up to a few days.
- Pain management: The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so there should be minimal pain during the surgery itself. Some discomfort is expected afterward.
- Success rate: Like traditional implants, immediate implants have a high success rate, but failure can occur, so choosing an experienced surgeon is important.
- Cost: The overall cost can vary based on factors like the number of implants, materials, and any additional treatments, but it can be a more cost-effective option in terms of time and some treatments.
