Tired of dentures that slip and slide? You can lose your dentures by turning to fixed or removable full-arch dental implants. Here are several different methods of replacing several missing teeth. A fixed option replaces some or all teeth and stays in the mouth so that the patient can not remove the implants. A removable option replaces all missing teeth that the patient can remove. Several factors—oral health, quality of jaw bone, and budget—determine which full-arch dental implant option is best for you.
At Center Valley Dental, we offer both fixed and removable full-arch implants to replace several missing teeth or a full arch of missing teeth. Whether you’re looking for a permanent, non-removable solution or a more flexible option, our team is here to help you make the best choice for your smile.
What Are Full-Arch Dental Implants?
Full-arch dental implants are a long-lasting and effective way to replace a full set of missing teeth, either on the top (upper arch) or bottom (lower arch) of your mouth. These implants act as a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Depending on your needs and preferences, we may use fixed (non-removable) or removable.
Fixed (Non-Removable) Full-Arch Implants
A fixed full-arch restoration is an option for patients who want a permanent solution to missing teeth. Once placed, these implants stay in your mouth, and the patient can’t remove them. This makes them feel very much like natural teeth, offering excellent comfort and stability.
This is a full upper or lower arch restoration that the patient never removes.
- Requires the placement of six to eight implants.
- The more implants that we place the better. This will provide more support for the restoration and less stress on each implant.
- Allows less stress on the bone to implant interface, which will result in greater long-term success and survival of the implants and restoration.
Advantages of Fixed Full-Arch Implants:
- No Removal Needed: These implants remain in your mouth at all times. There’s no need to take them out for cleaning or any other reason.
- Immediate Function: In some cases, patients can leave the office with a non-removable temporary set of teeth the same day that we place their implants.
- Feels Like Natural Teeth: With fixed implants, you’ll enjoy the confidence of having teeth that look, feel, and function just like the real thing.
Removable Full-Arch Implants
A removable full-arch restoration could be the ideal option for patients who want the flexibility of removable dentures but with the added stability of implants. Removable implant-supported dentures snap securely onto the implants but can be removed by the patient for cleaning.
Removable (Upper arch)
A full upper arch denture attaches to the implants. The patient must remove them daily.
There are two different options:
- Four implants are placed with a ball over the denture, preserving bone in the area of the implants. The denture retains more and is more stable with some movement.
- Six implants are placed with a bar over the denture, preserving the bone in the area of the implants. This denture does not move.
Removable (Lower arch)
A full lower arch denture attaches to implants, which the patient must remove daily.
There are three different options:
- Two implants are placed with a ball over the denture, preserving the bone in the areas of the implants. We place the implants in the anterior region. This denture has increased retention. It does not STOP all denture movement. It should stabilize and prevent the denture from falling out.
- Three implants with a ball over the denture preserve the bone around the implants. This denture has increased stability and retention compared to the above option, but there will still be some movement.
- Five implants are placed with a bar over the denture. Bone preservation in the entire arch will occur, and this denture will not move.
With removable full-arch dentures, you can enjoy a variety of benefits that make your life easier.
- Easier to Clean: Because you can remove the dentures, they are easier to clean than fixed options.
- Cost-Effective: Removable implants are typically more affordable than fixed implants, making them a popular choice for many patients.
- Easier to Repair: If you need to repair or replace the denture, it’s usually quicker and less expensive with a removable option.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between fixed and removable full-arch implants depends on several factors, including your oral health, the quality of your jawbone, and your budget. Our skilled team at Center Valley Dental will guide you through the process, making sure you fully understand your options and choose the best one for your unique needs.