Full Arch Dental Implants at Delgado Dental Group
Hi, everyone. I'm Dr. Alfonso Delgado from Delgado Dental Group, and I'm here to answer some questions about full-arch dental implants and full-arch dental bridges.
Dr. A, what are dental implants?
Honestly, there are many different names out there. Some people call it all on X, all on four, all on six, or hybrid denture. Essentially, a full arch dental bridge involves four to six, sometimes even eight implants, and on top of it is a bridge that replaces both teeth and gums. It's screwed in permanently, so you can't take it out, but your dentist can.
Who is a good candidate for full arch dental implants and who isn't?
I would say that most people are candidates as long as they have enough bone. Even in cases of extreme bone loss, there are experts who can place implants where you wouldn't think possible. Almost everyone is a candidate, as long as it fits into your budget.
What are the advantages of full arch dental implants versus dentures or other options?
The advantages of having a full-arched fixed dental restoration include restoring your chewing and eating ability to almost what it was with natural teeth, approximately 85% of your capability. With a traditional denture, you're probably at 10 to 20% of your chewing ability. With an overdenture, where you have implants but the denture snaps in and out, you're likely at 50 to 60% of your chewing capability.
What are the steps in the process of getting full arch dental implants?
The first step if you're interested in getting a full arch dental restoration on implants is to make an appointment for a consultation with your dentist.
How long is the full arch dental implant procedure?
There are a couple of ways to answer. The procedure itself is likely three or four hours, during which the implants are placed, sometimes some teeth have to be removed, and then the restoration is placed in your mouth. It's a process because the first restoration you get is a temporary or prototype restoration. We have a healing phase, and usually, the process lasts from four to six months until you receive your permanent dental bridge.
What anesthesia options are available during the procedure?
When we perform a procedure like that, we generally use local anesthetic, just as we would with any procedure. Depending on the patient's comfort level, we can also provide IV sedation, where you receive medication via an IV to help you relax and make the procedure easier.
How long do full arch dental implants last?
A common question is, how long does a full arch dental prosthesis last? It's hard to say. Like anything in life, if you take care of it, it could last a lifetime. I always say, to be conservative, it should last you a minimum of five years. A range of 5 to 20 years is probably a good estimate.
How do you clean and care for full arch implants?
Meaning, how do you keep it clean. You'll want to brush as you would your natural teeth. The difficulty can be the space between your restoration and your gums. Generally, we use something like a water pick to clean that area. Additionally, we use super floss, which is like floss with a hard end that you can insert underneath your dental bridge. It's thick and fuzzy to clean underneath. It's important to maintain the gums on a full-arch dental implant because if the gums become inflamed, as they can with teeth, it can lead to problems with the implants.
Will my new full arch implant teeth match the color of my old teeth?
The beauty of a full arch dental implant restoration is that we get to choose the color you like. We don't have to match your old teeth. If you want to go a little whiter, we can do that. We can also enhance the shape of the teeth to fit your smile. If you had crooked teeth before, we can make them straight and match the color to your personality.
What is the cost for full arched dental implants?
A question I often get is, "How much does it cost to get a full arch dental implant?" It can vary, but generally, you're looking at $20,000 to $25,000 per arch.
Will insurance help with the cost of full arch dental implants?
The answer is maybe. Most insurances cover between $1,500 to $2,000 a year. Depending on your coverage, there is a possibility that some costs will be covered. Unfortunately, this will likely cover only a minority of the restoration cost.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk with the dentist about full arch dental implants?
I hope I was able to answer your questions. If you have any other questions, feel free to call the office at (209) 474-8888, and we will answer any questions you have pertaining to full arch dental implants or any other dental questions you might have.