Full mouth rehabilitations of multiple implants
A failing set of teeth can be a debilitating condition by destroying self-esteem, function and aesthetics. When there are few or no teeth that can be saved, a non-removable, aesthetic and completely functional set of teeth can be provided by a ‘fixed full prosthesis on multiple implants’ which is the dental term for a full set of teeth on implants.
This can help restore function, nutrition, self-esteem and aesthetics.
Full mouth fixed solutions on multiple implants
Dental implants can be used to hold a ‘fixed dental bridge’ which essentially replaces an entire arch of teeth. These bridges replace both the gums and teeth and can be made from a variety of materials. Current evidence suggests a computer designed and milled framework with another material over the top to be the best in terms of fit to the implants and minimal complications.
Many patients favour this treatment because of its perception as the most natural and non-removable solution to replacing a full set of teeth.
This treatment is only suitable for people of good health, with no teeth or teeth beyond restoration, who are motivated to maintain their bridges and implants with regular checkups and hygiene at home. It is not an unbreakable and permanent solution to missing sets of teeth if unproperly cared for.
It takes proper diagnosis, 3 dimensional scanning, digital implant placement and comprehensive, patient involved treatment planning. Many dentists and surgeons offer “teeth in a day”, which might be a very rudimentary and oversimplified way of explaining a very well thought out procedure.
At Pymble Dental Practice, we will not sacrifice quality treatment for a rushed treatment. We will refer more complex cases to our well trusted specialist colleagues to help you, and us, achieve the best, longest lasting, safest result.
The minimum number of dental implants that can hold a fixed arch of teeth is four. This procedure has been made known by the “all-on-four” procedure.
It is more preferable in the opinion of dentists at Pymble Dental Practice to have more than four implants when achievable. The additional implants may not actually add much cost to the treatment plan, but they provide a failsafe redundancy to the plan. Should any implant fail for whatever reason, then at least the bridge will still function with the remaining implants.
What is the process of having a full mouth rehabilitation on dental implants?
Dental implants require a number of appointments over a period of weeks to months to complete. These appointments include:
Treatment planning including 3D x ray of jawbone, models, discussion of expectations, risks, complications and success rates.
Moulds and fabrication of the ‘provisional bridge’- which is the set of teeth which will be inserted on the day of surgery.
Implant surgery. This is done at Pymble Dental Practice, or by a specialist at a day hospital, under local anaesthetic and with or without sedation. Each surgery is unique and will be explained in great detail before commencement, and is planned to be the least invasive in order to get the best result.
Review appointment- 2 weeks after the surgery we like to ensure good intial healing by way of a 15-30 minute review.
“osseointegration”- a healing phase where the bone knits to the implant screw. The patient does not need to come into the office during this phase.
Impressions for the final set of teeth. Putty or digital moulds are taken to help our Sydney based technicians craft a beautiful and naturally congruent tooth or set of teeth to be attached to the implants. They may be made of acrylic, porcelain, zirconia or a combination of them.
Insertion of the dental implant prosthesis. There is normally no injections required at this appointment.
Who cannot have dental implants?
Whilst dental implants are a relatively minor surgery, there are some conditions that stop certain patients from having the procedure.
These include:
