When a patient’s lower jaw is fully edentulous ( complete loss of teeth ) , the only option is a full lower denture. However , a lower full denture is often very loose , thus causing problems in eating and speech in some instances. With the advent of dental implants , there are now various options . However this dental implant option will depend on the amount of jaw bone available.
Dental implants treatment options
Female 58 loss all her lower teeth at an early age. Conebeam CT Scan shows that there is adequate bone in both front and back of the lower jaw . 7 dental implants were placed evenly around the lower jaw . A 12 unit bridge is then screwed to the 7 dental implants.
Male 45 cone beam CTScan shows lack of jaw bone above the dental nerve in the back part of the lower jaw . 6 dental implants were placed in the front area of the lower jaw. A 12 unit cantilever bridge is then screwed onto the 6 implants. To compensate for the lack of bone in the back , the dental implants in the front of the jaw should be as long as possible .
For most patients ,the available bone in the front part of the lower jaw is of high quality . Thus this type of cantilever implant bridge has been shown to produce good long term.
FAQ on full arch teeth implants : lower Jaw
I have been wearing a lower denture for a long time , can I have dental implants done ?
There is usually enough bone in the lower jaw for some dental implants . Our in –office CT scan will determine the number of dental implants that can be done.
How long will the dental implant treatment take ?
The lower jaw has better bone quality compared to the upper jaw resulting in a shorter treatment time of about about 2- 3 months.
Is dental implant treatment a painful process ?
With modern dental implant techniques, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. For patients who are more anxious about the procedure, the surgery can be done under sedation in the clinic. Sedation will relax you during the procedure and the best part is that you will not remember the procedure afterwards.
Will I be without my false teeth during the treatment period ?
You will not be without teeth for any prolonged period as we can reline your existing full denture with a comfortable soft liner and you can leave the clinic with your original set of teeth.
Can all full denture patients have a full arch fixed dental implant bridge ?
In most lower jaw at least 5 dental implants can be done to support a fixed bridge. However in some instances where the bone shrinkage is too great , a dental implant supported overdenture is a better option
How do I know whether I am a suitable candidate for full arch dental implants ?
You have to come in for a thorough clinical and x-ray examination. Our in- office Cone Beam CT Scan will provide an accurate 3 dimensional assessment of the amount of jaw bone available for dental implants and whether any bone grafting is required.
How successful are dental implants ?
Modern dental implants have a success rate of 95 %
