Dental implants are a highly successful and aesthetically pleasing restorative option for patients who are missing one or more teeth. Patients who need to have a full denture may benefit from an implant supported denture as opposed to a traditional denture which can become ill-fitting over time. Full mouth dental implants are actually the healthier option for patients who need a full denture because dental implants help stimulate bone regeneration and prevent the deterioration that a traditional denture can promote. Without tooth roots to encourage bone growth, the jaw will begin to deteriorate over the years and can actually change the appearance of the patient's face in addition to an ill-fitting denture.
How are full mouth dental implants placed?
The procedure for having dental implants placed is the same regardless of the number of implants. For a patient who needs full mouth dental implants, it is important to be well informed and understand what is involved before you begin treatment. Your dentist will refer you to a specialist, an oral surgeon or periodontist, for evaluation. During their examination, the doctor will study your x-rays and possibly take a CT scan as well as photographs and diagnostic casts (molds of your mouth). It's important for the patient to have good bone structure to ensure a stable foundation for the implants. If the patient does not have enough bone, they may be advised to have a bone graft before the implants can be placed. A bone graft is an additional surgery that uses either donor bone or bone taken from another area of the patient's mouth or hip and is placed into the jaw to provide the necessary structure.
Regardless of the number of implants that are being placed, the surgery is the same. Your doctor will administer a local anesthetic anywhere and implant is to be placed and for a full mouth restoration, 4 to 8 implants will be placed on one or both arches. A temporary denture is then fitted over the implants while they heal to give the patient the ability to eat semi-normally while their implants heal for up to six month. Once your oral surgeon determines that your implants are healed, they will clear you for restoration with your dentist, who will place your permanent denture.
Maintenance and Oral Care For Full Mouth Dental Implants
No matter what type of dental restoration you have in your mouth, good oral hygiene is the key to making sure your investment is successful and lasts as long as possible. The doctor who places your implants will want you to come back annually for an exam which is important so don't think just because you see your dentist regularly that you don't need to see your oral surgeon or periodontist.
Regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings is important even if you have no natural teeth remaining. When you see your dentist, they will remove your implant denture and your hygienist will be able to clean each implant thoroughly as well as the denture before your dentist puts it back on. Implants patients need to have professional cleaning more frequently that twice a year, possibly every three month. These cleaning will help prevent excessive buildup around the implants which you cannot reach with your toothbrush so to avoid infection and implant failure, regular professional cleanings are crucial.
Implants can easily last lifetime but the restoration itself may need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years due to normal wear and tear. Full mouth dental implants are an excellent option for patients who are healthy and able to tolerate the procedure and healing period. Speak with your dentist to determine if full mouth dental implants is the best treatment for you!