Full-Arch Dental Implant Options
Patients who are missing all, or nearly all, of the teeth in an upper or lower jaw have several options for restoring function. Dental implants can be used to improve the stability of a removable denture or to support a fixed full-arch restoration. Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide the surgical and implant portion of treatment in coordination with your restorative dentist or prosthodontist.
Removable Implant-Retained Overdentures
An implant-retained overdenture is a removable denture that attaches to dental implants rather than relying only on the gums and underlying jaw for support and retention. Attachment systems, including Locator-style attachments, can provide substantially improved retention and stability compared with a conventional denture.
The number and position of implants vary according to the upper or lower jaw, available bone, anatomy, and the planned restoration. The denture can be removed by the patient for cleaning and maintenance.
Learn more about implant-retained overdentures.
Fixed Full-Arch Dental Implants
For appropriate patients, multiple dental implants can support a fixed prosthesis that replaces an entire arch of teeth. Unlike an overdenture, the prosthesis is not routinely removed by the patient. This type of treatment is commonly referred to as All-on-X or, with certain implant configurations, All-on-4.
In some cases, a temporary fixed prosthesis may be placed at or shortly after implant surgery when implant stability and other clinical conditions are appropriate. The definitive restoration is provided in coordination with the patient’s restorative dentist or prosthodontist.
Learn more about All-on-X and fixed full-arch dental implants.
Which Full-Arch Implant Option Is Right for Me?
There is no single treatment that is appropriate for every patient. The choice between a removable implant-retained overdenture and a fixed full-arch restoration depends on factors including the amount and quality of available bone, anatomy, medical history, restorative needs, hygiene considerations, treatment goals, and the overall treatment plan.
Three-dimensional imaging may be used when appropriate to evaluate the jawbone and surrounding anatomy. Some patients may also require bone grafting as part of their treatment.