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If you have worn dentures for several years, you understand the many challenges that come with these traditional prostheses. First of all, it can be difficult to chew and speak efficiently if your dentures are wobbly. This can make patients incredibly self-conscious and keep them from eating the foods they love or engaging in social activities. Since the advent of dental implants, patients have way more options when it comes to full-arch teeth replacement. But how do you know which solution is the right one for you? There are many questions you should ask yourself. First, are you seeking a removable or permanent option? Secondly, how much bone loss do you have? Thirdly, what are your own personal and unique teeth replacement goals? All of these factors are important to deciding which treatment to choose. Today, we will discuss the most common teeth replacement options for replacing an entire arch. Implant-Supported Dentures Implant-supported dentures are similar to their traditional counterparts as far as aesthetics go. However, one primary difference sets them apart: they rest on dental implants rather than the gum tissue itself. Not only is this more comfortable but is a much more secure option as well. To perform this treatment, the dental implants must be placed into the jawbone first. Next, several months of healing are required before the “snap-on” denture can be connected. (However, you will wear an interim denture during the healing phase.) Once the prosthesis snaps onto the dental implants, you can eat your favorite foods without worry or anxiety. Implant-supported dentures are removable. However, the retention is fully customizable; therefore, the dentures stay put while in use, but can be removed easily for cleaning. Depending on the case, implant-supported dentures can be connected to two or more implants per arch. Implant-Supported Bridges Patients who prefer a permanent teeth replacement option can opt for a full-arch implant-supported bridge. In most cases, a single full-arch prosthesis is connected to a predetermined number of implants, based on the patient’s specific situation. In most cases, six to eight implants per arch are required for this type of treatment. After your implants are placed, you will require a few months of healing before the restoration can be attached. During this phase, you will wear a healing denture. Because the final restoration is permanently affixed to the implants, there is nothing to remove or soak. You will use your new prosthesis just like natural teeth – eating, brushing, and flossing as normal. Your dentist can recommend specialized dental brushes to help you clean around your implants effectively. All-on-4® Dental Implants Patients who have been missing all of their teeth for several years are likely to have experienced a substantial amount of bone degradation, as this process is simply a standard byproduct of tooth loss. Because dental implants must be completely surrounded by healthy bone tissue, this poses a problem for some patients pursuing this type of treatment. For example, a patient who has worn a traditional denture for 20 years may not be eligible for standard dental implant placement due to a lack of bone density in the jaw. The All-on-4® treatment method changes this. In fact, many patients who were formerly not qualified for implants can now enjoy reliable full-arch teeth replacement. How does this work? All-on-4 treatment involves placing implants at precise angles in the jawbone, which will help maximize your natural existing bone. As the name suggests, an entire arch of teeth can be supported by just four implants. After the posts are placed, the prosthesis can then be permanently attached, often in the very same appointment. Learn More about Teeth Replacement with Dental Implants As you can see, there are plenty of options today when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Because implants are durable and predictable, they can last for several years – and often a lifetime – with proper care and maintenance. If you are curious about full-arch teeth replacement using dental implants, schedule a consultation at our Colleyville, TX oral surgery practice. Dr. Chris Tye can evaluate your condition and help you determine an option that will work well for your unique goals. Contact us online or give us a call at 817-552-3223.
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implant-supported dentures, all-on-4, dental implants,
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