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Full Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

Full Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Full dental implants, also known as all-on-four or all-on-six implants, are a type of dental implant that can replace an entire arch of teeth with only four or six implants per jaw2. This article will explain what full dental implants are, how they are implanted, how much they cost, what materials they are made of, how long they last, and what insurance options are available for them in North America.

What are full dental implants?

Full dental implants are a solution for people who have lost all or most of their teeth due to decay, disease, injury, or aging. Unlike traditional dentures, which are removable and can slip or cause discomfort, full dental implants are fixed and stable. They consist of a set of prosthetic teeth that are attached to a metal framework that is supported by four or six titanium screws that are inserted into the jawbone2. The screws act as anchors for the prosthetic teeth and also stimulate the bone to prevent bone loss and preserve facial structure3.

Full dental implants have many advantages over dentures, such as:

  • Improved appearance and confidence
  • Enhanced chewing and speaking ability
  • Better oral health and hygiene
  • Greater comfort and convenience
  • Higher durability and longevity

How are full dental implants implanted?

The procedure for full dental implants involves several steps and may take several months to complete. The first step is a consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon who will evaluate the patient’s oral health, bone density, bite alignment, and aesthetic goals. The dentist will also take X-rays, CT scans, impressions, and photographs of the patient’s mouth to plan the implant placement and design the prosthetic teeth4.

The second step is the surgery, which can be done under local or general anesthesia. The dentist will make incisions in the gums and drill holes in the jawbone where the implants will be inserted. The implants will be screwed into the bone and covered with healing caps. The dentist will then attach a temporary denture to the implants using abutments (connectors) or a metal bar. The temporary denture will allow the patient to eat and speak normally while the implants heal and integrate with the bone4.

The third step is the healing period, which can last from three to six months. During this time, the patient will need to follow a soft diet and avoid putting too much pressure on the implants. The patient will also need to visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments. The dentist will monitor the healing process and make sure that there are no complications or infections4.

The fourth step is the final restoration, which involves replacing the temporary denture with a permanent one. The permanent denture will be custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and match their natural teeth color and shape. The dentist will attach the permanent denture to the implants using abutments or a metal bar. The dentist will then test the fit and function of the denture and make any necessary adjustments4.

How much do full dental implants cost?

The cost of full dental implants can vary depending on several factors, such as:

  • The number of implants needed
  • The type and quality of materials used
  • The complexity of the procedure
  • The location and experience of the dentist
  • The insurance coverage and financing options available

According to Dental Implant Cost Guide, a website that provides information on dental implant prices in different countries, the average cost of full dental implants in North America ranges from 15,000 to 30,000 per arch. This means that replacing both upper and lower teeth with full dental implants can cost anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000.

However, these prices are only estimates and may not include other expenses such as consultation fees, X-rays, CT scans, anesthesia fees, post-operative care fees, etc. Therefore, it is important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon who can provide a detailed quote based on the patient’s specific needs and preferences.

What materials are used for full dental implants?

Full dental implants are made of two main components: the implants and the denture. The implants are usually made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that is strong, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion. Titanium implants can fuse with the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for the denture3.

The denture can be made of different materials, such as:

  • Acrylic: a plastic material that is easy to mold and color. Acrylic dentures are affordable and can look natural, but they are also prone to wear and tear, staining, and cracking.
  • Porcelain: a ceramic material that is hard and durable. Porcelain dentures are more expensive and can look realistic, but they are also heavier and can cause more wear on the implants and the natural teeth.
  • Zirconia: a synthetic material that is strong and biocompatible. Zirconia dentures are more costly and can offer a high level of aesthetics, but they are also more difficult to adjust and repair.

The choice of material for the denture depends on the patient’s budget, preferences, and expectations. The dentist will help the patient choose the best option for their situation.

How long do full dental implants last?

Full dental implants are designed to last for a long time, possibly for a lifetime. However, their longevity depends on several factors, such as:

  • The quality of the materials and the procedure
  • The patient’s oral hygiene and habits
  • The patient’s general health and lifestyle
  • The regular maintenance and follow-up visits

According to Dental Implant Cost Guide, full dental implants have a success rate of over 95%. However, this does not mean that they are immune to problems or complications. Some of the potential risks or issues that can affect full dental implants are:

  • Infection or inflammation of the gums or bone around the implants
  • Loosening or fracture of the implants or the denture
  • Damage or wear of the denture due to biting forces or grinding
  • Allergic reaction or rejection of the implants or the denture
  • Changes in the bite alignment or facial structure due to bone loss or aging

To prevent or minimize these problems, it is essential for the patient to take good care of their full dental implants. This includes:

  • Brushing and flossing daily to remove plaque and bacteria
  • Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the denture
  • Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent infection
  • Avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the denture or the implants
  • Avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs that can impair healing or cause complications
  • Visiting the dentist regularly for cleaning, examination, and adjustment

By following these tips, the patient can enjoy their full dental implants for many years.

What are the insurance coverages for full dental implants in North America?

Full dental implants are considered a cosmetic procedure by most insurance companies in North America. This means that they are not covered by standard dental plans or by Medicare or Medicaid. However, some insurance companies may offer partial coverage for certain aspects of full dental implants, such as:

  • The extraction of the remaining teeth
  • The bone grafting or sinus lifting if needed
  • The anesthesia fees
  • The temporary denture

The amount of coverage may vary depending on the insurance company, the plan, and the policy. Therefore, it is important for the patient to check with their insurance provider before undergoing full dental implants.

Alternatively, some patients may opt for other financing options to pay for their full dental implants, such as:

  • Dental discount plans: These are membership-based plans that offer discounts on various dental procedures at participating dentists. They are not insurance plans, but they can help reduce the cost of full dental implants by 10% to 60%.
  • Dental loans: These are personal loans that can be used to pay for any dental treatment. They have fixed interest rates and monthly payments that can be tailored to suit the patient’s budget. They can be obtained from banks, credit unions, online lenders, or dental offices.
  • Dental credit cards: These are credit cards that are specifically designed for dental expenses. They offer low or no interest rates for a certain period of time (usually 6 to 24 months) if the patient pays off their balance in full within that time frame. They can be applied for online or at participating dentists.

These financing options can help make full dental implants more affordable and accessible for many patients.

Conclusion

Full dental implants are a modern and advanced solution for replacing missing teeth. They offer many benefits over dentures, such as improved appearance, function, comfort, and durability.