Howard County Smiles provides experienced dental care in Columbia, MD including full mouth dental implants. If you are missing all of your teeth on the upper or lower jaw or both, Dr. Ray Becker can replace them with multiple dental implants.
Severe tooth loss is usually the result of periodontitis. During this stage of gum disease, teeth loosen and fall out or require extraction. Also, a traumatic injury to the face can cause someone to lose all of their teeth. Full mouth dental implants can restore your oral health without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. Traditional dentures rely on suction or adhesive to remain in place, while this sophisticated solution uses implant fixtures to firmly hold a denture.
What are Full Mouth Dental Implants?
Full mouth dental implants are also referred to as many other things such as full-arch dental implants, implant-supported dentures, denture implants, etc. Simply put, this type of dental restoration is a denture that is held in place with several dental implants. The false teeth are fused to a base that resembles gum tissue.
This technology allows individuals to regain their ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently, providing a significant improvement in overall oral function and aesthetics. Full mouth dental implants enhance the patient’s quality of life and promote better oral health by preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
How Do Full Mouth Implants Work?
Full mouth dental implants are a revolutionary solution to tooth loss that involves a sophisticated process. The first step involves a thorough evaluation of mouth and oral health. Your dentist must ensure you have enough bone density to support your multiple dental implants. There is a possibility that you may need a bone graft to build up the bone in your jaw.
Anywhere from 2-8 dental implants will be surgically inserted into the jawbone at strategic locations. It will take a few months for the patient to heal and recover before the permanent denture can be placed. The implant fixtures are made from titanium which will fuse to human bone through a process called osseointegration. While the integration is occurring, patients will be fitted with a temporary denture for aesthetic purposes and to maintain normal chewing function.
After about three to six months, your dentist will attach abutments to the implants. These are connector pieces that serve as anchors for the false teeth. We will take dental impressions and measurements to create your custom denture that will attach perfectly to the abutments. Your custom-made dentures will be meticulously designed to match the patient’s natural teeth in shape, size, and color, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance.
Full Mouth Dental Implants vs Traditional Dentures
Dentures and full mouth dental implants are two options you will have to replace an arch of teeth. Compared to dentures, full mouth implants offer better stability and durability because the denture is anchored to multiple implant fixtures. This allows for a normal chewing function and better speaking abilities.
The implant fixtures will also help prevent bone loss in the jaw and help to maintain your natural facial structure because they replace the missing teeth roots. However, this solution is also more expensive up front, involves a surgical procedure, and the treatment time is lengthy.
Your dentist can place a set of dentures in less than a month which is significantly less time than full mouth dental implants. The cost of traditional dentures is only a fraction of an implant restoration making them the more affordable choice. The treatment process is also non-invasive and only requires impressions.
However, a denture is much less stable. It may require adhesive to remain in place. Denture wearers often complain of their restoration slipping around, causing discomfort or causing difficulties eating and speaking. Also, dentures do not replace teeth roots, which leads to bone loss in the jaw and changes in the facial structure.
Full Mouth Dental Implants FAQs
Learn more about full mouth dental implants in Columbia, MD:
How many dental implants will I need for an implant-supported denture?
The number of dental implants it takes to secure the denture will vary per patient, depending on several factors. The most essential factor is the quality of the bone tissue. The upper jaw bone is softer and will typically require more dental implants. Dr. Becker may suggest anywhere from 4 to 8 implants to secure the denture. The bone in the lower jaw is much denser so it may only require 2 to 8 dental implants.
How do I care for full mouth dental implants?
You can care for full-mouth dental implants like your natural teeth. First, brush and floss daily. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your implants at least twice a day. Use floss designed for dental implants or an interdental brush to clean around your restoration.
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure your implants stay in good shape. Our dentist can spot any problems early. If you grind your teeth, talk to our dentist about wearing a nightguard to protect your implants while you sleep.
Can I get implants if I already wear dentures?
Yes, you can get dental implants even if you already wear dentures. Many people choose implants to replace dentures because they provide a more secure and comfortable fit.
Our dentist will check if you have enough jawbone to support implants. If not, you might need a bone graft to strengthen the area. Once the implants are in place, you’ll enjoy a more natural-looking smile and the ability to eat your favorite foods more easily.
Can I eat normally after I get full mouth dental implants?
After you get full mouth dental implants, you must follow our dentist’s instructions to ensure proper healing. In the first few weeks, you might need to stick to soft foods like soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes to avoid putting too much pressure on your new implants. Once fully healed, dental implants should allow you to eat just like natural teeth.
Are full mouth dental implants painful?
Before the procedure, our dentist will numb the area so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the surgery. After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, discomfort, or mild pain. However, we will prescribe pain medication as you recover.
Will full mouth dental implants look natural?
Yes! Your implant restoration matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. The artificial teeth are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly, so they blend in well with the rest of your smile. With the right care, these implants can look and feel like natural teeth.
What is the recovery time for full mouth implants?
The recovery time for full mouth implants can vary, but most people start to feel better within a few days to a week after the procedure. However, it can take 3 to 6 months for the implants to heal and bond with your jawbone fully. Most people can return to their normal activities after a few days, but you should follow our dentist’s instructions to ensure the best results.
Are full mouth dental implants worth it?
Yes, full mouth dental implants are often worth it for many people. They can help restore your smile and improve your eating and speaking ability. Unlike dentures, implants are secure and don’t slip or move, which makes them feel more natural. They also help preserve your jawbone to prevent bone loss from missing teeth.
While the cost of full mouth implants can be higher than other options, they last for many years, sometimes even a lifetime. They’re a good investment in your long-term health and quality of life. We will make sure they’re the right option for you based on your needs and overall health.
Learn more about implants on our website:
- Implant Dentistry
- Dental Implants FAQs
- What are Dental Implants?
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Cost of Dental Implants
- Implant-Supported Crown
Contact Us To Learn More About Full Mouth Dental Implants in Columbia, MD
To book your consultation for full mouth dental implants in Columbia, MD, call our office at (410) 415-9013. You can also request an appointment online.