If you have a full set of missing teeth, either in the upper or lower jaw or both, dental implants offer a permanent and long-term solution to restore your smile and rebuild your confidence. While dental implants can be ideal for single-tooth replacement, modern advancements in dentistry have made them an available option for full arch reconstruction.
Briefly, full-mouth dental implants use 4 to 6 implant posts that span across the jawbone to hold a full denture on top of it. Over the recent years, this option for tooth replacement has been an increasingly popular choice because of its natural aesthetics and improved functionality for a healthy and beautiful smile.
Carry on reading to learn more about this treatment.
Full Mouth Dental Implants
There are two common ways to achieve a full mouth of dental implants, either All-On-4 or All-On-6. These differ mainly in the number of implant posts that will be placed in the jawbone to support a full denture. Then, an implant-retained denture is attached to the implant posts to complete your smile.
All-On-4
This type of full-mouth dental implant utilizes four implant posts for a full-mouth reconstruction, whether for the upper or lower teeth. In this procedure, two implants are placed in front and two are angled at the back.
The main advantage of this procedure is that the placement of the implants provides excellent stability without the need for bone grafts, making All-On-4 more accessible for patients who have insufficient bone support. Also, fewer dental implants and less need for bone grafts make for a more conservative treatment.
All-On-6
But, if the placement of more implants is possible with ideal bone conditions present, All-On-6 dental implants are highly recommended. This technique uses 6 implant posts, 3 on both sides of the arch, to complete a full mouth restoration. With more implant posts in place, there is optimal stability and long-term reliability for the implant-retained denture.
With these techniques available for full mouth implants in Calgary, it is best to consult with your dentist so they can give you advice on the best treatment to go for.
Benefits of Full Mouth Dental Implants
Full-mouth dental implants, whether with All-On-4 or All-On-6, provide patients with several benefits compared to other alternatives.
Improves smile aesthetics and facial appearance
Full-mouth dental implants create a custom-made smile that looks like natural teeth. They also stimulate bone growth and help support the muscles of the lips and face for a more youthful look.
Has enhanced comfort and stability compared to other alternatives
Because full-mouth implants are permanently fixed in the mouth, they do not slip around like dentures would. This creates a smile that patients can be comfortable to talk and eat with.
Boosts long-term oral health
The dentures supported by implants can be removed by your dentist for cleaning and to check for any concerns. Because of this feat, long-term maintenance is more convenient.
Increases confidence and quality of life
The wonders that a full set of teeth and a confident smile can do to someone is truly life-changing. Whether you are someone who just enjoys smiling or need that confidence back to better present yourself in your workspace, this treatment can be for you.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Getting full-mouth dental implants in Calgary involves a multi-step procedure. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
- Initial Consultation
The first step is to obtain your medical and dental history, charts, and scans for a comprehensive assessment of your case. After careful evaluation and upon understanding your treatment goals, we can determine if full-mouth dental implants are the right choice for you.
- Treatment Planning
Then, using the scans, our dental team will plan where to place the dental implants. Advanced dental imaging allows for accurate placement where there is maximum bone support for implant stability.
- Dental Implant Surgery
During surgery, you will receive sedatives, whether through IV sedation, local anaesthetics, or general anaesthesia. Then, each titanium post is surgically placed in the bone through a small incision on the gums.
- Recovery
You are to wait a few months to allow the wound to heal and for the implants to fuse with the bone. During this time, temporary teeth will be attached to the implants. It is important that you follow your dentist’s post-surgical guidelines to prevent complications as you heal and ensure treatment success.
Costs and Financing Options in Alberta
On average, full-mouth dental implants in Calgary start at $25,000. Several factors come into play when it comes to this cost, including:
- Clinic location – clinics located in big cities may charge more
- Dental expertise – dentists with more experience and those who offer advanced treatment techniques are expected to have increased costs.
- Materials used – premium materials cost more and this adds to your fees
- Number of implants – All-On-6 implants cost more than All-On-4
- Preparatory procedures required – if you need prior treatments such as a bone graft, gum treatment, or sinus lift, this will increase your treatment cost
It is no secret that dental implants are a significant investment, especially if you are looking to have a full mouth replacement. So, if you are considering this treatment and are looking for ways to help cover the fees, here are some options that you can consider:
- Look for clinics that offer flexible payment plans, monthly payments, or accept third-party financing
- Work closely with your dental insurance provider so they can determine if partial coverage can be applied to your treatment.
- Discuss with your dentist your options or alternatives for treatment that are more aligned with your financial situation.
Contact Chinook Dental Group Today
Full-mouth dental implants and implant-retained dentures offer a permanent aesthetically pleasing, and fully functional solution for patients who have lost all their teeth. If you are considering this treatment, our team at Chinook Dental Group can set up an appointment for you so we can check your eligibility and guide you through the process.
