Full Arch Dental Implants
Explore full arch implant options for replacing most or all teeth in an arch. Learn about candidacy, temporary teeth, healing and long-term maintenance.
Full arch implant treatment is used when most or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing or cannot be predictably restored. Instead of replacing every tooth with a separate implant, a fixed or removable prosthesis can often be supported by a smaller number of strategically placed implants.
Who may be considered for full arch implant treatment?
Treatment planning starts with the condition of the remaining teeth, gums, jawbone, bite and overall health. The goal is not to remove restorable teeth simply because implants are available. If some teeth have a good prognosis, preserving them may be the better option.
How many implants are used?
The number is individualized. Some full arch restorations are supported by four implants while others require more. Bone volume, implant position, prosthetic design, bite forces and the condition of the opposing arch all influence the plan. “All-on-4” is one specific concept, not the only way to restore a full arch.
Can teeth be placed the same day?
In selected patients, a temporary fixed restoration may be attached soon after implant placement. Immediate loading is not appropriate for every case and the temporary teeth are not the final prosthesis. Implant stability, bone quality, surgical findings and bite forces all matter.
What is the treatment sequence?
Planning may include digital imaging, removal of nonrestorable teeth, bone grafting when needed, implant placement, a temporary prosthesis and then a definitive restoration after healing. Some stages can be combined while others are deliberately separated to improve predictability.
What are the tradeoffs?
Full arch implant treatment can improve stability and chewing compared with a conventional removable denture, but it is a major restorative commitment. Maintenance, cleaning access, repair of worn or fractured prosthetic components and monitoring of the tissues around the implants remain important long term.
Full arch implant planning in Palo Alto
Dr. Sharma can evaluate the restorative options, explain alternatives and coordinate surgical care when appropriate. Learn more about dental implants, dentures and implant maintenance.
Request an appointment to discuss replacing multiple missing teeth.
