Full Arch Replacement
ALL TEETH MISSING
Benefits of a fixed bridge on implants
When all teeth are missing or in such condition that they need to be replaced, a fixed bridge anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution
Before dental implants, there were no fixed solution available for people who lost all their teeth. Today, it is possible to replace a full jaw with dental implants and a fixed bridge that results in a permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.
- Lets you eat and function like having natural teeth
- A solid, stable solution that will serve you for life
- Preserves your facial appearance and prevents bone loss
Treatment:
The treatment procedure and number of visits is largely dependent on the specific conditions. But all in all, 8-10 visits should be enough to have a fixed bridge installed. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated.
COURSE OF TREATMENT
INSTALLING THE FIXED BRIDGE– STEP-BY-STEP
The course of treatment described here is one of several options available. Consult your dentist to find out what the best solution is for you, given your specific condition.
1: Before the procedure
The dentist determines what needs to be done and
prepares both himself and the patient for the coming treatment
procedure.
2: Installing the implants
The first step is installing dental implants to
replace the lost tooth roots. In this case, five implants are used.
Temporary teeth are attached that enable you to eat and function like
normal while waiting for the permanent bridge to be installed.
3: Attaching the bridge
The final bridge is securely installed on top
of the implants. With a full jaw replacement like this, it normally
takes 2-3 visits to have the bridge completely attached.
4: End result
Your new teeth should be hard to tell from
natural – both for you and others. People who have had traditional
dentures before getting a fixed bridge often describe this as an
overwhelming and very positive experience.
ALTERNATIVES TO A FIXED BRIDGE
An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which is
anchored on implants. The old fashioned denture has many disadvantages
and should be avoided if possible.
Removable, implant anchored overdenture
A removable full denture that is connected to either a
ball or bar attachment, which in turn is anchored on two or more
implants in the front part of the jaw.
The implants help keep the denture in place and provide
better function and comfort. Cost is usually the reason why this
solution is chosen over a fixed bridge – although the end result can’t
be compared.
Removable full denture
A denture that is loosely placed on top of the gum to
cover the lost teeth. This alternative has no real advantages – except
for its low price and easy installation.
The disadvantages are many: discomfort in eating, poor
esthetics, affected speech, and sore gums from denture movement.
Moreover, a full denture placed in the upper jaw severely reduces the
sense of taste.