Implant supported fixed full-arch bridge

This is an alternative to a full denture and can follow certain bone augmentation procedures to grow substantial bone to support the implants. Several dental implants can be inserted along the jawbone to ensure adequate support for a fixed bridge. The process is very similar to a single of multiple implant procedure but does require much more planning, careful diagnosis and positioning before the treatment can commence. This is so that the correct amount of implants are placed in the correct positions so that a bridge can be sufficiently attached with the correct support and requirements.

The number of implants required for a full-arch fixed bridge can range depending on the individual. Many factors have to be taken into account including the size of the jaw, the opposing teeth, the number of teeth being replaced and the type of bridge required. If all of the teeth in one or both jaw are already missing then a complete arch of implants can be inserted. If teeth are remaining, they may need to be extracted before the implants can be placed. Usually the implants can be placed at the same time as extraction.

A temporary fixed bridge can be placed for those who still have teeth remaining so that the transition between natural teeth and implants is much easier. This temporary fixed bridge allows the usual chewing, speaking and smiling without the need for a removable denture. If there are not enough teeth left to functionally support a temporary fixed bridge then a removable denture may be temporarily required.

A dentist will offer advice on how long to wear a denture, as a denture must not be worn for two weeks after the implants have been inserted. This will allow the mouth, gums and bone to heal without receiving trauma. Modern technology has resulted in a full arch of implants being inserted along with a fixed bridge in the same procedure. This is known as immediate loading as the implants are undergoing chewing forces as soon as they have been placed.

This procedure normally involves temporary fixed bridges and has a high success rate. However, there are certain requirements that must be taken into account for it to be a successful option. There must be careful positioning and planning by the dentist and surgeon and other treatment options should always be discussed in case there is a better alternative.

What is an Implant Overdenture?

An implant overdenture offers stability and preservation of a complete denture set. This device fits over a dental implant and features many different attachments. This procedure is used to replace a full set of missing teeth with a full-arch. This is essentially a bigger adaptation of the implant assisted removable partial denture (IRPD). The implant overdenture easily clicks into place which allows comfort and ease of wearing. Chewing is improved greatly as these implant overdentures are held in place with a range of attachments personally selected by the dentist. These attachments are designed to provide ultimate retention. Maintaining oral hygiene is easy with the implant overdenture as it is easily removed. This structure looks and feels very natural.

The preparation for implant overdentures involves gum and jaw impressions to gauge the size and structure of the dentures. The positioning of the teeth on the denture structure will be considered along with the prime position for each dental implant. The appearance and bite will be taken into account. Normally, a prototype will be produced first to act as a template so that the surgeon can use it as guidance when completing the procedure.

An upper implant overdenture will need more implants than a lower implant overdenture due to the variable aspects of the upper and lower jaws. An upper overdenture may be made without the need for a palate (roof of the mouth) to assist with comfort.

There are many specific needs for an implant overdenture procedure which can vary with importance. The decision for this treatment must be considered with a dentist and alternative options should be researched. Many patients will benefit from the support this treatment can provide including facial support provided by the extensions of the overdenture structure. The number of implants required should be decided by the dentist, whilst taking into account personal factors and experiences with any current dentures used.

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