Full Denture Alternatives
In other cases different abutment types can be attached to implants for an implant supported overdenture that snaps in place. The prosthesis does not move around, and doesn’t require denture glues. The implants can minimize pressure on the gums which avoids food getting under the denture and injuring the tissue. The implants supporting a denture will help maintain the existing bone, resulting in preserving the facial youthfulness.
For those patients missing all their lower teeth a popular option is the “fixed detachable” or hybrid denture. After placement it stays in all the time and can only be removed by a dental professional.
For those patients who have not lost significant amounts of bone “standard” crowns and bridges can be done on a full arch of dental implants. These are cemented in crowns just like those placed on natural teeth. This is the most natural option for replacement of all teeth.
All-on-4™
All-on-4™ is a full arch fixed prosthesis technique. It is a relatively new technique in the United States but has been done for many years with much success in Europe. This technique uses fewer implants that are placed at mechanical inclinations to maximize support. Fewer implants results in lower cost. The All-on-4™ implant treatment solution has been developed to maximize the use of available bone and to allow in some situations, immediate function on a full arch prosthesis and avoids covering the palate with denture plastic. Using only four to six implants in a toothless jaw, this treatment option takes advantage of the benefits of tilting the back implants to provide a secure and optimal prosthetic support for a fixed prosthesis, even with minimal bone volume. This also allows us to avoid anatomical areas that previously required bone grafting. The use of angled implant placement eliminates the need for bone grafting, saves months in healing and thousands of dollars. All-on-4™ saves time and money and we are excited to make this option available to our patients.
