The loss of all teeth can have profound effects on chewing, speech, nutrition and self-confidence. Although classic complete dentures serve many people, retention problems, sores and having to be selective about food are frequently encountered complaints, especially in the lower jaw. Implant-supported solutions can offer a much more stable and comfortable alternative in edentulous jaws. Getting to know full-arch implant options helps you determine the solution that best fits your needs and expectations. As DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic, we approach full-arch treatments with digital planning for our patients in Türkiye.
The Limits of the Classic Complete Denture
Complete dentures sit only on the gum and the bone beneath it. Over time, as the bone resorbs, the retention of the denture decreases, it moves out of place and may require frequent relining. In the lower jaw, the movements of the tongue dislodge the denture even more easily. Chewing efficiency may remain limited and some foods cannot be eaten. Implants aim to solve a significant part of these problems by fixing the denture to the bone.
Full-Arch Implant Options
Implant-Supported Removable Denture (Overdenture)
A small number of implants are placed in the jaw and the denture is attached to these implants by means of special connecting parts (attachments or a bar). The denture can be put in and taken out by the patient; however, it provides much better retention than a classic denture. Especially in the lower jaw, a marked increase in comfort can be achieved even with two implants. Since it requires fewer implants, it is a valuable option for patients with advanced bone loss or those who want to avoid extensive surgery. Cleaning is done easily by removing the denture.
Implant-Supported Fixed Prosthesis
This is a fixed prosthesis that is usually screwed onto four to six or more implants and cannot be removed by the patient. It offers the feel and chewing comfort closest to natural teeth. The prosthesis can be removed by the dentist during check-ups and professional cleaning.
A Fixed Solution with a Small Number of Implants (All-on-4 Concept)
In this approach, in which a full-arch fixed prosthesis is made on four implants, the back implants are placed at an angle in the existing bone, avoiding structures such as the sinus and the nerve canal. In this way, the need for extensive bone grafting can be reduced in some cases. In suitable cases, temporary fixed teeth can be attached on the same day. Not every case is suitable for this approach; bone structure and bite are evaluated in detail.
Individual Crowns or Segmented Bridges
In cases where bone volume is sufficient, more implants can be placed and restoration can be done tooth by tooth or in sections as bridges. It offers the structure closest to natural teeth; however, it requires more implants and generally a longer treatment process.
Which Option Is Right for You?
- Bone quantity and quality: Determine how many implants can be placed and the need for grafting.
- Expectations: Fixed teeth, or an easily cleanable removable solution?
- Lip and facial support: In advanced bone loss, the lip support provided by a removable denture can be an aesthetic advantage.
- Manual dexterity and care: Cleaning under fixed prostheses requires special tools.
- General health: The scope of the surgical procedure is planned according to the general health condition.
- Opposing jaw: The condition of the teeth or denture in the opposing jaw affects the design.
Same-Day Temporary Teeth
In suitable cases, shortly after the implants are placed, a temporary fixed prosthesis can be attached on the same day or within a few days. This approach allows the patient to go through the healing process without being left without teeth. After fusion with the bone is complete, the temporary prosthesis is replaced with the permanent prosthesis. For same-day loading, the implants need to reach sufficient initial stability; this is measured during surgery and the decision is made accordingly.
What Will Happen to the Remaining Teeth?
If there are still some teeth in the mouth, whether these teeth can be preserved is evaluated in detail. Teeth that can be preserved can be included in the treatment plan. The extraction of teeth that cannot be preserved due to advanced gum disease and the placement of implants can be planned in the same session. This decision is made taking into account not only the current situation but also long-term predictability.
Digital Planning and Guided Surgery
In full-arch treatments, the position of the implants is planned according to the aesthetic and functional requirements of the prosthesis. At DijiDent, by combining tomography, intraoral scanning and facial analyses, we design the position of the teeth and the implant positions in a virtual environment. In suitable cases, this planning is transferred to the mouth with surgical guides.
Long-Term Care
In full-arch implant solutions, regular check-ups, professional cleaning and care at home with appropriate tools are indispensable for the health of the tissues around the implants. With fixed prostheses, it may be necessary to remove the prosthesis and clean it during check-ups. A night guard may be recommended for patients with a teeth-clenching habit.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies according to the chosen solution. Fewer implants are used for removable dentures, and generally four to six or more for fixed prostheses.
It is a treatment concept in which a full-arch fixed prosthesis is made on four implants. Its suitability is determined according to bone structure.
In suitable cases, when the implants reach sufficient initial stability, temporary fixed teeth can be attached on the same day.
Age alone is not an obstacle. The decision is made by evaluating general health and bone condition.
Both have advantages. Bone structure, expectations and ease of care are evaluated together.
Smile freely again with solutions for edentulous jaws.
Contact us to book an appointment to learn about full-arch implant options and the plan suitable for you. Let us design your treatment digitally together at DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic.
This content is for general information purposes and does not replace an examination by a dentist. Treatment options, duration and results vary from person to person; the decision is made after clinical evaluation.
