Full Arch Implants

Full arch implants are becoming more common today due to recent advancements in dental implant treatment. The all on 4 dental implant solution has recently become well known in implant dentistry. Dr Paulo Malo of Malo Clinic in Lisbon was the pioneer of this dental implant treatment together with Nobel Biocare of Sweden. The all on 4 dental implant treatment basically refers to the placement of 4 implants strategically placed in a single arch in order to replace a full arch of missing teeth. The protocol avoids complex bone grafting procedures in the upper and lower jaws.




Full Arch Implants to Replace Missing Teeth

The all on 4 protocol involves placing implants at a 45 degree angle in order to avoid the maxillary sinuses on the upper jaw and the inferior dental nerve in the lower jaw. The two anterior implants are placed according to the anatomy of the jaw bone. The four implants work together in order to support a fixed bridge. The implants are designed in a specific way in order to create maximum anchorage when placed into the jaw bone. One of the main advantages of the all on 4 treatment is that it is possible to have the implants placed and fixed teeth loaded onto the implants on the same day. Unlike traditional implant placement techniques which require long healing times and wearing removable dentures during this time, with the all on 4 treatment the dental implants are able to support fixed teeth on the same day of surgery.

So What Is 'All on 6' Implant Treatment?

Basically in some cases where patients have very good amounts of bone, it is not necessary to place angled implants in order to avoid the anatomical structures mentioned above. This means that the implants can be placed in a conventional means,basically vertically as there is sufficient space and bone for the implants. In such cases one can place 6 implants in order to provide greater support and stability to the hybrid bridge.

Full Arch Implants in Just One Day

The all on 6 protocol basically allows patients to have full arch implants placed and fixed teeth completed in just one day. The fixed bridge which is fitted after surgery is a provisional hybrid bridge. This provisional bridge is usually used for up to 6 months while the implants heal and fuse with the jaw bone. Once it has been confirmed that the implants have all osseointegrated then the final hybrid bridge can be completed.

Sometimes one needs to be make changes to the final bridge. The patient may want to change the colour of the final bridge, the appearance of the teeth or alter the amount of lip support. Together with the dental technician one can create the perfect smile you have always wanted.