Planning a fixed solution for an edentulous jaw
Full-arch implant treatment
A comprehensive approach to planning a fixed prosthesis over a limited number of implants in a jaw where all teeth are missing.
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Illustrative treatment imageUnderstand the treatment
Full-arch implant treatment places a set number of implants in an edentulous jaw and plans a fixed or retrievable prosthesis over them. The number of implants, their positions and the type of prosthesis are determined by bone condition and individual assessment.
Illustrative medical image; it is not a real patient case or a promise of outcome. Outcomes of every surgical or interventional procedure may vary from person to person. Please obtain a detailed opinion from your dentist before the procedure.
When might it be considered?
Consider an alternative to the movement of a conventional full denture
Address facial and smile support as part of the prosthetic plan
Aim to improve comfort in speech and eating
Who may be assessed for it?
Bone volume and density are assessed radiographically
General health must be compatible with a surgical procedure
Smoking, unmanaged diabetes and certain medications may affect healing
Daily hygiene and a commitment to regular review are part of the treatment
Possible stages, from planning to review
Comprehensive assessment
Intraoral examination, three-dimensional imaging and medical history are considered together.
Planning
Implant number, positions and prosthesis type are planned individually.
Surgical stage
Implants are placed according to the clinical plan; a temporary prosthesis may be fitted in the same session.
Healing
The implants are allowed to integrate with the bone, over a period that varies between people.
Definitive prosthesis
The final prosthesis is made with fit, bite and aesthetics checked.
Long-term review
Professional cleaning and regular reviews are necessary for the health of the surrounding tissues.
What to discuss before deciding
Treatment extends over months; it is not completed in a single session.
Where bone is insufficient, grafting or a different plan may be required.
Infection, failure to integrate and prosthetic complications are possible.
Tissues around implants need consistent care; neglect can lead to tissue loss.
Other approaches that may be considered
Conventional full denture
Implant-retained removable prosthesis
Segmental implant planning
Frequently asked questions about this treatment
01Can I leave with teeth the same day?
In some cases a temporary prosthesis is fitted at an early stage, depending on bone and primary stability. It does not mean the definitive prosthesis is complete.
02How many implants are needed?
There is no standard number. It follows from bone condition, prosthesis type and individual assessment.
03How many trips from abroad will I need?
Two stages are commonly planned; the exact number becomes clear after examination, according to healing and treatment scope.
Trusted information sources
These independent health resources can help you build a general understanding of the treatment.
Cleveland Clinic — Dental Implants
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02Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS — Dental Implants
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03American Academy of Periodontology — Peri-implant Diseases
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This content is for general information only; it is not a diagnosis, examination or personal treatment recommendation. Suitability, risks, alternatives, timing and expected outcomes can only be discussed personally after a dentist’s clinical assessment and any necessary imaging.
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