What if full arch restoration?
A full arch smile restoration is a treatment that is performed when all of your teeth are missing from either the upper or lower arch.
There are three different types of full arch restorations including a fixed dental bridge, removable over denture and a removable full denture.
A fixed bridge is often the most popular restoration choice as it’s a permanent solution and will feel and function the same as your natural teeth.
A Fixed Bridge Restoration
A fixed bridge restoration is permanent and uses a combination of dental implants and a dental bridge to restore your smile.
A dental bridge is a made out of a pontic (solid false tooth) and two exterior porcelain crowns. It is designed to fill in a gap left by a missing tooth or a group of teeth by attaching to an existing or installed solid tooth structure in the mouth.
The full arch restoration process:
- During an initial consultation, our team at City Smiles will evaluate your mouth and determine the best route of treatment. We will determine how many implants are needed and the size and shape of your near-natural prosthetic teeth.
- The next step is to ensure you have no underlying dental issues that need fixing prior to beginning restoration. If your mouth is healthy, the next step is the installation of the dental implants. The titanium implants will act as your new roots and usually four to five implants are used per arch. Once installed, it will take several months for your jawbone to fuse to the dental implants. So while this happens, we will secure temporary implant crowns so that the aesthetic and function of your smile is not affected.
- Once your implants are fused with the jawbone, we will remove your temporary implant crowns and install your permanent bridge. This part of the procedure may require multiple visits.
- End Result! Your smile is fully restored, both he functional and aesthetics. Many patients prefer the permanency of this procedure as it allows them to feel like they still have their natural teeth.
Advantages:
- Permanent restoration that feels like your natural teeth
- Care is the same as natural teeth (brushing and flossing)
- Stimulates the jawbone more effectively than removable solutions which improves function and the facial profile
Disadvantages:
- There are virtually no disadvantages to restoring your smile
Removable Over Dentures
A removable over denture is a removable full arch of teeth and prosthetic gum. It can be anchored to two dental implants by either a ball or bar fixture in the front of the jaw.
Positives:
- Usually more cost-effective although the end result is not as stable or realistic
- More stable than a removable full denture
Disadvantages
- Still not as stable as a fixed bridge restoration
- Many patients find removable dentures harder to clean and embarrassing at times
Removable Full Denture
A removable denture is a mixture of prosthetic teeth and gum that is inserted loosely over your natural gum.
Positives:
- The cheapest form of full arch replacement
Disadvantages:
- Doesn’t stimulate the jawbone as necessary
- Can result in a shallow look of the face
- Harder to clean
- Can make regular functions difficult such as eating, and these dentures can slip out at inopportune times
Full Arch Restoration FAQs
What is a full arch restoration?
A full arch restoration is essentially a replacement of all of the teeth on one or both jaws. In this procedure, four to six dental implants will need to be placed. There are three types of full arch restorations available: a fixed bridge; removable over denture; and a removable full denture.
The guided keyhole surgical procedure is minimally invasive meaning a virtually pain-free procedure. In comparison, traditional implant surgery requires a lengthy, invasive surgical procedure, sometimes under general anaesthetic.
How much is a full arch restoration?
Here at City Smiles we have a reputation of being the most affordable dental practice in Melbourne and strive to ensure all our patients gain the care they need without the added stress of excessive cost. This is why our full arch restoration is $8,000-$12,000 but is always subject to diagnostic and treatment planning. We also offer upgrade options at approximately $12,000 -$15,000.
Our upgrade options include:
- Overdenture
- Hybrid fixed denture
- Zirconia ceramic fixed bridge
What are the benefits of a fixed bridge restoration?
A full arch fixed dental bridge restoration is permanent and, once complete, will look and function just like your other natural teeth. As it’s a permanent solution, you can stick to your normal dental hygiene routine without causing any damage to the bridge.
A fixed bridge restoration also stimulates the jawbone which helps to improve facial function and facial profile.
How do you take care of a full arch dental implant?
To take care of a full arch dental implant:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying attention to the implant area.
- Clean between the implants and neighbouring teeth using floss or interdental brushes.
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash recommended by your dentist.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and biting hard objects.
- Follow a balanced diet for optimal healing and oral health.
- Protect your implants from trauma or injury.
- Follow the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist.
- Address bruxism (teeth grinding) with your dentist if necessary.
Remember, proper oral hygiene and regular dental care are essential for the success and longevity of your full arch dental implants. It’s crucial to consult with your dentist for personalised advice and recommendations based on your specific needs.
What are the side effects of All- on- 4 dental implants?
While the “All-on-4” dental implant technique is generally considered safe and effective, there are potential side effects and complications that can arise. These include:
- Swelling, bruising, and discomfort after surgery.
- Infection around the implant sites.
- Implant failure due to various factors.
- Rare cases of nerve damage causing numbness or altered sensation.
- Potential sinus complications in the upper jaw
- Gum recession around the implants.
- Temporary bite and speech issues during the adjustment period.
It’s important to note that the likelihood of experiencing these side effects or complications can vary depending on individual factors, such as overall health, oral hygiene practices, and the expertise of the dental professional performing the procedure. Working closely with a skilled dentist or oral surgeon, following post-operative instructions, and maintaining good oral hygiene are crucial to minimising the risk of complications and ensuring successful outcomes.
Can I eat normally with All-on-4 dental implants?
Yes, you can eat normally with All-on-4 dental implants. One of the significant advantages of All-on-4 implants is that they provide a stable and secure foundation for your replacement teeth, allowing you to bite and chew with confidence. With proper healing and integration of the implants, you should be able to enjoy a wide range of foods.
Full arch restoration at City Smiles
Our innovative technology is predictable, and the best possible final result is planned right from the start through the precision of our computer-guided software. The planned computer-guided process allows us to prepare the tooth crown or bridge in advance, so you can walk out with your teeth in as little as one appointment. Interested in full arch restoration and dentures? Contact our experienced team at City Smiles in Melbourne by clicking here, we can help you!
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