TREATMENT OPTIONS

PROBLEM: MISSING ALL THE TEETH IN AN ARCH

Treatment Options:

Complete upper and lower dentures

1. Complete Denture

The simplest and easiest option to replace all the teeth missing in an arch is a complete acrylic/plastic denture. The denture relies on suction and muscle control to hold it in position. The appearance can be very good, it is the function which is rarely ideal. All the biting forces are supported by the gums, which can lead to ulcers from rubbing and a compromise in eating habits because of denture movement.

Long-term denture wear results in loss of the supporting bone necessitating relines or fabrication of a new denture. The maximum biting force possible with complete dentures is about 1/10th of that possible with natural teeth.

Implant retained complete denture (overdenture)

2. Implant Retained Complete Denture (Overdenture)

The minimum number of implants (2 in the lower jaw, 4 in the upper) can be used to hold a complete denture firmly in place. The dentures are still primarily supported on the gums but the implants prevent any excessive movement such that social embarrassments are reduced and eating becomes much easier. The easiest way to use implants like this is to incorporate ball and socket joints, the ball on the head of the implant and the socket within the denture. Relines are needed much less as the implants help to maintain the bone around them.

Implant supported complete denture

3. Implant Supported Complete Denture (Removable Bridge)

If the number of implants is increased (a minimum of 4 in the lower, 6 in the upper) then all the biting forces can be placed on the implants and the size of the denture is correspondingly reduced. There is no need to cover the palate and the plastic is limited to replacing the missing teeth and gum tissue only. This option again provides a good aesthetic result with excellent function, it is, however, still necessary to remove the denture for cleaning. There is generally no further bone loss and the integrity of the facial structures is maintained.

4. Fixed Full Arch Bridgework

When sufficient number of implants are employed (6 to 8 and over), a restoration can be fabricated which is either screwed or cemented on to the implants. These bridges are generally made of ceramic and are as close to replacing your natural teeth as possible. Your maximum biting force is almost the same as having natural teeth and all foodstuffs can be eaten without compromise. Further bone loss from your jaws is prevented and facial contours are restored and maintained. Obviously all cleaning has to be carried out with the bridge in place, it is however removable for maintenance by the dentist if required.

Implant supported full arch bridge

Suffering the loss of your natural teeth can be difficult. Our team at Contemporary Smiles is trained to understand and treat those who have lost their natural teeth. Having a dentist understand your special needs and provide guidance with sensitivity to achieve your new smile can make this an easier process. We are ready to help you realize your dreams.

Contemporary Smiles uses two of the most common implant systems on the market -
Nobel Biocare from Sweden and Strauman from Switzerland.