MacDonald Periodontics
Specialist in Periodontics and Implant Surgery
Call: (506) 848-5131

Full Arch Replacement

Permanent Tooth Replacement - Dental Implants


Single Tooth Replacement | Multiple Teeth Replacement | Dental Implant FAQ's

All Teeth MissingALL TEETH MISSING

Benefits of a fixed bridge on implants
When all teeth are missing or in such condition that they need to be replaced, a fixed bridge anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution

Before dental implants, there were no fixed solutions available for people who lost all their teeth. Today, it is possible to replace a full jaw with dental implants and a fixed bridge that results in a permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.

  • Lets you eat and function like having natural teeth
  • A solid, stable, long-term solution
  • Preserves your facial appearance and prevents bone loss    

 

COURSE OF TREATMENT

INSTALLING THE FIXED BRIDGE– STEP-BY-STEP

The course of treatment described here is one of several options available. Consult your dentist to find out what the best solution is for you, given your specific condition.

   
1: Before the procedure
After a thorough clinical and radiographic examination your Periodontist determines what needs to be done and prepares both himself and the patient for the coming treatment procedure.
2: Installing the implants
The first step is installing dental implants to replace the lost tooth roots. The number of implants required will depend on the type of prosthesis, the patient's anatomy, and the patient's occlusion (bite). Temporary teeth are inserted that enable you to eat and function like normal while waiting for the permanent bridge to be installed.
   
3: Attaching the bridge
The final bridge is securely installed on top of the implants. With a full jaw replacement like this, it normally takes several visits to have the bridge completely attached.
4: End result
Your new teeth should be hard to tell from natural – both for you and others. People who have had traditional dentures before getting a fixed bridge often describe this as an overwhelming and very positive experience.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 


 ALTERNATIVES TO A FIXED BRIDGE

Removable, implanted retained overdenture

An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which is anchored on implants. This denture is retained by a ball type attachment anchored to at least 2 dental implants.

The implants help keep the denture in place and provide better function and comfort. Cost is usually the reason why this solution is chosen over a fixed bridge.

Removable, implant retained bar overdenture
A removable full denture that is connected to abar attachment, which in turn is anchored on two or more implants in the front part of the jaw.

The implants help keep the denture in place and provide better function and comfort. Cost is usually the reason why this solution is chosen over a fixed bridge – although the end result can’t be compared.
Removable full denture
A denture that is loosely placed on top of the gum to cover the lost teeth. This alternative has no real advantages – except for its low price and easy installation.

The disadvantages are many: discomfort in eating, poor esthetics, affected speech, and sore gums from denture movement. Moreover, a full denture placed in the upper jaw severely reduces the sense of taste.