Full-arch replacement procedures – which include the DIEM® full-arch replacement, All-on-4® treatment concept, and Teeth-in-a-Day procedures – provide a permanent alternative to removable dentures for patients who want to replace a full upper or lower arch of teeth. When many or all of your teeth are missing or need to be removed, it’s important to have them replaced; doing so can prevent a variety of oral health problems.
At Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in Tucson, AZ, and Oro Valley, AZ, our surgeons are full-arch experts, and they will be happy to help you find out if the procedure is right for you. The full-arch restoration usually involves four or more dental implants supporting a full permanent upper or lower denture. This revolutionary procedure is more cost-effective and efficient than replacing teeth with single implants, which means less healing time for the patient. In some instances, the procedure can be completed in a single outpatient procedure, allowing you to enjoy your new teeth sooner.
Benefits of Full-Arch Replacement
Full-arch replacements offer the permanence and health benefits of dental implants along with a beautiful, healthy smile. Some of the benefits patients notice after a full-arch replacement include the following:
- Easier eating without dentures slipping or creating sores
- Fully taste foods with no denture covering your palate
- Smile confidently with natural-looking replacement teeth
- Preserve bone structure and support muscles and lips around teeth
- Prevent loss of underlying jaw bone
Patients who want the coverage of dentures with the security of implants may find that full-arch replacements are the perfect solution. If you are healthy enough to undergo outpatient dental procedures, you may be a candidate for full-arch replacement.
Full-Arch Replacement Procedures
Before your procedure, you will come into the office for a consultation appointment, at which your surgeon will evaluate your condition. At this appointment, you will be able to discuss your treatment options and any questions you have about the procedure. Your surgeon will take 3D images of your jaw to help plan your treatment. You will also be able to discuss your anesthesia and pre-operative instructions at this time.
When you return for the procedure itself, you will need a designated driver if you receive IV anesthesia. After your anesthesia is administered, your surgeon will strategically place your dental implants in the jaw. The angle of placement allows just a few implants to support the chewing forces of a full arch of teeth. In most cases, a temporary prosthesis will be placed and fixed to the implants, but sometimes a temporary removable conventional denture will be necessary while your implants heal for several months. Either way, you will leave the office with a new smile. You, your restorative dentist, and your surgeon will have planned this aspect of the surgery well in advance. The surgery usually lasts between one and two to four hours, and once it’s over your designated driver will bring you home to rest.
If your permanent prosthesis is still being made, you will return after a few weeks of healing to have the permanent teeth attached. You will probably need to take a soft diet for a while so that your implant sites can heal. Once your implant sites are strong enough, you will be able to eat virtually anything you like and smile confidently.
DIEM® Full-Arch Replacement at Arizona Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
If you want an alternative to removable dentures, full-arch replacement through dental implants may be right for you. Our oral surgeons will be happy to review your condition and help you choose a tooth replacement solution. Contact one of our offices in Tucson, AZ, or Oro Valley, AZ, to schedule a consultation.