Advanced Cosmetic, Reconstructive, and Implant Dentistry
Advanced Cosmetic, Reconstructive, and Implant Dentistry
The full mouth implant procedure is performed under conscious sedation to ensure a comfortable procedure. Post operative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with oral medications. The prosthetic phase of treatment is usually painless.
The treatment time to complete full mouth dental implants can vary depending on the individual. It typically involves multiple stages including implant placement, at least a four month healing period. The overall treatment may take several months after implant healing is complete.
Full mouth dental implants an excellent treatment choice for most patients, however there are some factors which increase patient’s risk of failure. These risks include lack of bone density or volume, poor overall health, and smoking. It is important that a potential implant candidate be thoroughly evaluated for potential issues that could shorten the typical long term prognosis.
Traditional dentures rest on and are supported by gum tissue. The upper denture covers the roof of the mouth and some level of suction can be developed for retention. It is generally not possible to develop suction in a lower denture because of the smaller surface area as compared to the upper. Additionally tongue movement tends to upset the denture. Implant-stabilized restorations offer superior chewing ability and are more like natural teeth.
Full mouth dental implants, also known as full arch dental implants or implant supported dentures, are a treatment option for patients who have lost all or most of their natural teeth. This treatment involves a full arch prosthesis that is supported by multiple implants.
All On 4 Dental Implants can be removed or replaced if necessary but this is generally a rare occurrence.
Infection and/or implant failure would necessitate the removal and replacement of the existing implant and bone grafting would typically be recommended to rebuild the structural support for a new implant.
Keep in mind that All On 4 Dental Implants are meant to be a permanent solution and are removed once per year by your prosthodontist to clean and access your oral hygiene. This means it is very important that you use your Water Pic daily to flush food debris from under your prosthesis to prevent gum infection.
If you are considering All On 4 Dental Implants or have existing complications, it is important to discuss these issues with a Board Certified Prosthodontist so you can make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
All On 4 Dental Implants can be used for both upper and lower jaws. The bone on the upper jaw is not quite as dense and hard as it is on the lower and sometimes it is recommended to have 5 implants instead of 4 for added support.
All On 4 Dental Implants may be a good option for patients who have lost all or most of their teeth and are looking for a long term solution to return their smile and eating ability.
Good candidates for All On 4 Dental Implants have:
If you are considering All On 4 Dental Implants, discuss your options with a Board Certified Prosthodontist to determine if this is the right procedure for you.
The reported success rates of the All On 4 Dental Implant procedure in some studies is as high as 98% over 10 years.This high rate of success is due to the inherently stable design of the supporting implants and full arch prosthesis.
The All On 4 Dental Implants system is designed to support a full arch of teeth with two implants in the front and two in the back of your jaw. This arrangement is stable like the four legs of a table. Chewing forces are evenly distributed across the implants which can reduce the risk of implant failure.
It is important to recognize the the long term success of All On 4 Dental Implants depends on one’s overall health, quality and quantity of supporting jawbone and a daily habit of effective oral hygiene. Patient’s who smoke are at greater risk of implant failure
If you are considering All On 4 Dental Implants please discuss with your Board Certified Prosthodontist if this procedure is right for you.
As with any surgical procedure, All On 4 Dental Implants patients may experience some discomfort or pain during and after the procedure. However, conscious sedation is recommended to provide a safe and effective pain free surgical experience.
Generally, post operative pain is considered mild and can be managed by oral medications.
Keep in mind that every patient’s pain tolerance is different and some may experience more discomfort that others. If you have concerns regarding pain or discomfort associated with the All On 4 Dental Implants procedure your Board Certified Prosthodontist will have the answers.