What are full arch dental implants?
What are full arch dental implants? Full arch means either the top teeth or bottom teeth. The top teeth are considered one arch, the maxilla, and the bottom teeth are considered another arch, the mandible. Full arch implants, or implant-retained dentures, do not come in and out of your mouth. They require a minimum of four implants, usually up to six, to support a permanent prosthesis that stays in your mouth.
Who is a good candidate for full arch dental implants?
The main criteria are good bone health and general health. People with health complications, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or with compromised immune systems, are at higher risk of implant failure. A dentist can evaluate your bone levels and overall health to determine if you are a good candidate. We use three-dimensional x-rays to assess bone quantity and quality.
What are the advantages of full arch dental implants versus dentures or other options?
Full arch implant prosthetics are permanent and do not need to be removed daily, unlike dentures. They function and look like real teeth, allowing you to eat more efficiently. Dentures typically result in a two-thirds loss of chewing efficiency compared to natural teeth. Full arch implants restore more of your natural chewing ability and provide better overall function and aesthetics.
What are the steps in the process for getting full arch dental implants?
The process for getting full arch implants involves several steps. Teeth may need to be removed, and implants placed either before or after extraction. Sometimes grafting and healing are required before placing implants. Once the implants are placed, it takes about four months for them to fuse with the bone. After healing, impressions are taken, and prosthetics are created. The entire process, from extraction to permanent prosthetics, typically takes about seven months.
How long is the full arch dental implant procedure?
The procedure duration varies. Placing four implants can take an hour to an hour and a half if no additional work is needed. If teeth need to be removed or extensive bone grafting is required, the procedure can take two to four hours. We try to keep surgical appointments under four hours to minimize patient discomfort.
Is the procedure painful when getting full arch dental implants?
There will be some discomfort and pain when teeth are extracted, but during the procedure, effective anesthesia ensures that you do not feel pain. We offer various sedation options, including oral and IV medications, to help patients with anxiety. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area and ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure.
What anesthesia options are available during the procedure?
We offer several anesthesia options, including IV sedation, oral sedation with medications like Halcion or Valium, and nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas). Local anesthesia is always used to numb the area and prevent localized pain during the procedure.
How long do full arch dental implants last?
The lifespan of full arch dental implants varies. The implants themselves can last 25 to 30 years or more if properly cared for. However, gum disease can still affect implants, so good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential. The prosthesis on top of the implants may also need maintenance or replacement over time.
How do you clean and care for full arch implants?
Cleaning and caring for full arch implants involves brushing, flossing, and using special tools like floss threaders, super floss, and proxy brushes. Mouth rinses and water flossers can also help clean around the implants. Regular professional cleanings are necessary to maintain the health of the implants and prosthesis.
Will my new arch implant teeth match the color of my old teeth?
We can match the color of your new full arch implant teeth to your existing teeth, but many patients opt for an improvement in color. We can customize the color to your preference, whether you want a natural match or a brighter smile.
What is the cost for full arch dental implants?
The cost of full arch dental implants is significant, typically around $25,000 per arch, or $50,000 for a full mouth set. Additional costs may arise if teeth need to be removed or if bone grafting is required. The cost varies by location and individual case complexity.
Will insurance help with the cost of full arch dental implants?
Most dental insurances will help with the cost, but they usually cover only a portion of it. Even if split over several years, insurance will cover between $1,500 and $3,000 per year, leaving the remaining cost to the patient.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk with a dentist about full arch dental implants?
Scheduling an appointment is easy. Please call us at Integrity Dental at (719) 545-2468. We offer no-charge consultations to discuss options and determine your eligibility for full arch dental implants. Technology has made this process faster, more tolerable, and less painful, significantly improving quality of life compared to removable dentures.