Full mouth dental implants offer a transformative solution for various dental issues. For example, those suffering from gum disease, severe dental decay, or teeth worn down by bruxism may have missing teeth and require a complete set of artificial teeth.
Ideal replacements should remain stable during chewing and speaking, functioning as close to natural teeth as possible. Full mouth dental implants meet these criteria and can be placed by a dentist when necessary.
Understanding Full Mouth Dental Implants
Full mouth implants restore a person’s smile after losing all of their teeth. They consist of several titanium dental implants that integrate with the jawbone, supporting a set of prosthetic teeth. Two common types of full-mouth implants include implant-supported dental bridges and implant-supported full dentures, both available in removable or fixed options.
The Full Mouth Implants Process
A full-mouth dental implant procedure effectively treats individuals requiring complete teeth replacement. This method restores the appearance, function, and comfort provided previously by natural teeth. The procedure involves:
- Diagnostic stages, lasting a few days to weeks, include x-rays, CT scans, diagnostic mock-ups, virtual planning, and smile design.
- Placing six to eight implants in the upper jaw.
- Placing four to six dental implants in the lower jaw.
- Fabricating temporary dental bridges or dentures.
Connecting durable, natural-looking porcelain/acrylic teeth to the implants using dental cement or titanium screws.
Procedure Expectations
The treatment course varies depending on an individual’s health, preferences, and goals. Initially, dental implants are placed in the jawbone. Contemporary dental technology allows for the placement of fixed temporary bridges on the same day as implant installation.
This advancement enables patients to transition from missing or problematic teeth to beautiful temporary teeth in a single visit. The final, permanent implant bridge will fully restore patients’ function and comfort.
Post-Procedure Recovery
Following the procedure, patients may experience discomfort and soreness around each implant site, which should subside within a few days. The implants then need several months to fuse with the bone. After this process, the permanent prosthetic can be placed, completing the patient’s smile.
Caring for New Implants
Fixed, full-mouth implant bridges require proper cleaning and oral care, similar to natural teeth. Patients should maintain their new teeth by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, using a Waterpik, attending dental check-ups, and receiving professional teeth cleanings.
Unlike natural teeth, implants don’t decay, making home care slightly less critical, though still necessary. In addition, to protect their new teeth, patients with full mouth implants receive a complimentary night guard—a plastic retainer worn at night to prevent upper and lower teeth contact.
Preserve Your Healthy Smile
At Burlinson Dental Surgery, we recognise the life-changing impact of tooth loss. Therefore, we strive to collaborate with patients in finding the ideal tooth replacement solution tailored to their dental needs and budget. Our full mouth dental implant procedure delivers a permanent solution that restores both a beautiful smile and natural teeth functionality.
