Losing multiple teeth can significantly impact your daily life. Full arch implants offer a solution to restore both function and aesthetics, allowing you to regain your confidence. While they have several advantages over traditional dentures, there are important factors to consider before making this decision.
A consultation with your dentist is the best way to address any questions and assess your candidacy for this procedure. Call Above the Gate Dentistry at 916-656-0050 (Diamond Springs) 916-299-8983 (El Dorado Hills) to book your consultation.
In the meantime, here are five questions you probably have about full arch dental implants – and their answers.
Full arch dental implants involve replacing an entire set of teeth – the upper arch, the lower arch, or both. This procedure typically employs four to six implants strategically placed in the jawbone, serving as a stable base for a complete set of replacement teeth. Unlike other types of implant dentures, All-on-4 or All-on-6 may allow you to receive both implants and a temporary set of teeth during one visit.
After your dentist inserts implants into the jawbone, he’ll attach a temporary set of teeth to them. This gives you both functionality and an appealing appearance as your jaw heals. Your jawbone will need time to integrate with the implants, a process known as osseointegration. This may take several months. You’ll have follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress. Once fully healed, you’ll receive your set of more permanent replacement teeth.
The success of your full arch dental implants hinges on the condition of your jawbone. Adequate bone density and volume are crucial since the implants must bond with the bone. If you’ve experienced significant bone loss, you may require a bone graft before proceeding. However, you’re less likely to need a graft with the All-on-4 method. It generally requires less bone density than other implant options. Your dentist will evaluate your bone health during your initial consultation.
Post-surgery recovery is vital and demands adherence to your dentist’s instructions. Initially, you’ll need to stick to softer foods, avoid heavy activities at first, and maintain excellent oral hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. You may experience minor discomfort and swelling. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. While initial recovery lasts about one to two weeks, complete healing and integration may extend over several months.
Full arch dental implants represent a significant investment, with costs varying based on materials and any additional procedures like bone grafting. It’s crucial to understand the total costs involved, including consultations, surgery, follow-ups, and the final placement of your teeth.
During your planning consultation, your dentist will clarify the financial aspects and help explore insurance coverage and third-party financing options like CareCredit, which can facilitate manageable payment plans.
Investing in full arch dental implants brings numerous long-term benefits. They mimic the feel and function of natural teeth more closely than conventional dentures. You won’t need adhesive, and you won’t need to worry about slippage or discomfort.
Additionally, implants help preserve jawbone health by stimulating the bone. This prevents the degradation of your facial structure that typically happens after tooth loss. Preserving your facial structure contributes to a more youthful appearance and negates the need for relining procedures.
Maintaining your implants is straightforward—just brush and floss as you would with natural teeth. If any further maintenance is required, your dentist can assist with that as well.
Want to know more about full arch implants? To visit us in El Dorado County, CA at either of our two locations, call: 916-656-0050 (Diamond Springs) or 916-299-8983 (El Dorado Hills). You can also make an appointment online for Diamond Springs or schedule online for El Dorado Hills.
