Full Arch Dental Implants: A Complete Guide to Restoring Your Smile
Dental implants, which work by surgically attaching a metal post—usually made of titanium—into the jawbone, are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. While a single implant is a great option to replace one or two teeth, full arch dental implants are the fastest and most effective way to fill large gaps and permanently restore your smile.
To help you understand full arch dental implants and whether they’re right for you, this article dives into the two types of full arch implants available, plus the implantation process, typical recovery time, pros and cons of each, cost factors, and more.
What Are Full Arch Dental Implants?
Full arch implants anchor several prosthetic teeth onto a series of implanted posts—typically 4-6 total for a full set of top or bottom teeth. This makes their insertion far less invasive than traditional dental implants, which require one metal post per tooth. These posts are spaced out to act as anchors for the new teeth, which are connected together on a prosthetic base.
Dental implants are a permanent full-smile restoration solution, unlike other options like dentures. They don’t slip, food doesn’t get stuck underneath them, and they don’t have to be removed to be cleaned. In addition, while the prosthetic teeth may need eventual replacement, the implants themselves are meant to last a lifetime.
That all makes implants a natural-looking, low-care, and comfortable option for tooth replacement. They’re particularly good for:
- Individuals who are missing most or all of their natural teeth.
- Patients who want a permanent solution to large gaps in their smile.
- Anyone seeking a natural-looking replacement for their smile.
Types of Full Arch Implant Solutions
There are two primary types of full arch implant solutions: All-on-4 and Implant Supported Dentures. Our patients tend to prefer the All-on-4 implant procedure due to its streamlined process, fewer implants required, and easy long-term maintenance.
All-on-4 implants work exactly as their name suggests: a full set of teeth can be placed on up to four implants. After implantation and recovery, All-on-4 dental implants can be cared for just like your natural teeth, with daily brushing and regular cleanings. Securely anchored into the jaw, they won’t move around and are strong enough to let you enjoy your favorite foods again.
Suggested read: How to Clean All on 4 Implants
Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, are a versatile alternative that typically involve four to six implants. The denture can be either fixed (non-removable) or designed to snap in and out for cleaning. While often more affordable, implant-supported dentures tend to require more maintenance and may feel less natural than the All-on-4 system, which is why many patients opt for the simplicity and permanence of All-on-4.
In the chart below, we’ve broken down all of the features of All-on-4 Implants and Implant-Supported Dentures to help you understand their differences.
| Feature | All-on-4 Implants | Implant-Supported Dentures |
| Number of Implants | Typically 4 per arch | 2–6 per arch depending on design |
| Removable? | No — fixed and non-removable | Yes or No — can be fixed or removable depending on type |
| Stability | Very stable — permanently attached to implants | More stable than traditional dentures, but some movement possible with removable versions |
| Treatment Time | Often completed in a single day (temporary teeth placed) | May require multiple appointments for placement and fitting |
| Comfort | Feels more like natural teeth; no denture movement | Comfortable but may have some movement with removable designs |
| Bone Preservation | Helps prevent bone loss due to direct stimulation | Also helps preserve bone, though may be less stimulating than fixed implants |
| Cleaning & Maintenance | Clean like natural teeth (brushing, flossing, professional cleanings) | Removable options must be taken out and cleaned; fixed options clean similarly to natural teeth |
| Appearance | Natural-looking, custom-designed arch | Natural-looking, but can be bulkier depending on design |
| Cost | Typically higher upfront cost | Often more affordable, especially with removable options |
| Ideal For | Patients seeking a permanent, long-term solution with immediate results | Patients looking for more affordability or flexibility |
| Longevity | Implants can last decades; prosthetics may need replacement after 10–15 years | Similar longevity; removable components may wear faster |
What Do Full Arch Implants Look Like?
Full arch dental implants are intended to look and feel like your natural teeth. Advances in technology and dental artistry have allowed for vast improvements in the production of prosthetic teeth, which are often crafted from materials like porcelain and ceramic to mimic the appearance of real teeth.
Each prosthetic is custom-made to the exact needs of the patient, down to the shape, size, and color of the teeth. The individual teeth are typically set onto a natural-looking gumline base that is color-matched to your existing tissue. This attention to detail ensures a natural-looking smile, even with dental implants. Want to see the results for yourself? Check out the before and after photos of our past All-on-4 patients.
Benefits of Full Arch Implants
Because full arch implants are a secure, permanent solution to missing teeth, they can be used just like your natural teeth. That means easier speech, better chewing, and not having to worry about removing them for cleaning or replacement. Even better, the implants stimulate the jaw bone, helping to stop bone loss and encourage regrowth.
Some of the best benefits of full arch implants include:
- Fixed or permanent solution to missing teeth with All-on-4 or permanent implant-supported dentures
- Improved chewing and speech
- Facial structure support through jawbone preservation
- High success and longevity rate
- Fast implantation and recovery time, with just 4-6 implants per arch
Drawbacks and Considerations
While dental implants can help many patients restore their smile, they’re not always the right solution for missing teeth.
No matter the type of implant you choose, surgery is required. Because of this, your overall health is a factor to consider. Not only can your health generally impact your healing time, but some health conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of complications.
Full arch implants are often a great option for patients with moderate bone loss, as the implants can be strategically placed to maximize the available structures. Even so, bone grafting may be needed to support successful implantation.
Related: Yes, You Can Get Dental Implants When You Have Bone Loss
Finally, smokers beware: smoking can drastically increase your healing time, make it harder for the implants to take hold, and lead to other complications as well.
Our North Jersey oral surgeons can help you assess your situation and determine the best option for your tooth replacement goals, whether that’s with implants or another alternative.
All-on-4 Surgery Process
With smaller implants and just four per arch, All-on-4 dental implants require less invasive surgery and recovery time than traditional dental implants. Typically, an oral surgeon will place the implants and secure an initial set of prosthetic teeth during a single visit. For most people, that means getting a whole new smile in one day or less.
Of course, it takes quite a bit longer for the jaw and tissues to fully heal. The production and placement of your long-term prosthetics also takes time. For most people, the entire process to replace your smile with All-on-4 dental implants requires a total commitment of 3-6 months. If bone grafting is needed in advance of the implant surgery, that timeline will extend to allow for that procedure and associated healing time.
Learn more about the process for All-on-4 dental implants.
How Long Do Full Arch Implants Last?
For most people, full arch dental implants last a lifetime. Once the titanium rods are placed, they should not require replacement, as long as you take good care of your oral health. That means daily brushing and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups.
Regular care will also help to extend the life of your prosthetic teeth. Full arch implants are intended to last for a long time, but some wear and tear is to be expected with regular use. Prosthetic teeth typically need replacement after 10-15 years.
You can help extend the life of your new teeth by:
- Brushing and flossing your teeth daily, just like you would with natural teeth, but paying extra attention to the transition from your implants to your natural gums
- Using mouthwash to clear out bacteria in the mouth
- Wearing a mouthguard to protect your investment, especially if you play sports or grind your teeth at night
- Visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups
- Using caution when enjoying tough foods such as hard candies or anything overly sticky
What is the Cost of Full Arch Implants?
The cost of full arch dental implants varies from patient to patient, depending on the scope of the replacement, the complexity of the case, and any pre-surgical treatments that are needed. These include tooth extractions, mitigation of gum disease, and bone grafting to increase the density of the jaw.
During your consultation, we will provide you with an estimate that incorporates your particular needs and goals, giving you better insight into the total cost for your situation.
Why Choose Bergen Oral Surgery?
Bergen Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has been trusted by dentists and patients to restore healthy smiles for more than 70 years. Our expert team includes dual-degree surgeons educated and skilled in both medicine and dentistry, allowing them to thoughtfully treat even the most complex cases–not to mention any complications that may arise.
Our team is skilled in providing full arch dental implants, including All-on-4 dental implants, to help our patients smile with confidence. Each of our four Bergen County locations is equipped with in-house imaging technology, a variety of sedation options, and a comfortable environment to provide our patients with everything they need throughout the process.
To learn more about your dental replacement options, including the average cost of full arch dental implants, contact our offices in Franklin Lakes, Hackensack, Ridgewood, or Westwood. Our team is here to help, whether you set up an appointment by calling or texting us at 201-477-2667 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about full arch dental implants? Here are some of the most common questions and concerns we receive from our patients.
Are full arch implants painful?
Dental implants require surgery to attach the metal rods to the jawbone. Because of this, some pain and discomfort is to be expected during the implant process and healing period. However, once the jaw and gums have healed, full arch implants are one of the most comfortable, long-lasting tooth replacement options available.
Can I get implants if I’ve worn dentures for years?
Many patients switch to full arch dental implants after years of struggling with traditional dentures. Whether implants are right for you depends on a number of factors, including the health of your jawbone and gums, your overall wellbeing, and more. A skilled oral surgeon will conduct an exam, discuss your goals, and present you with the best options for your long-term care.
What’s the difference between All-on-4 and traditional dentures?
Traditional dentures rest on the gums, often secured into place with temporary adhesive. They’re affordable and removable, but don’t look—or feel—like natural teeth.
All-on-4 implants are surgically attached to the jawbone. They look and function just like real teeth. While dentures can be uncomfortable, trapping food and bacteria underneath, and must be removed daily for cleaning, implants are totally secure, giving you the freedom to smile brightly, enjoy all the foods you love, and to easily care for your smile.
Can I get full arch implants on both upper and lower jaws?
Yes! Full arch dental implants can be used on both the upper and lower jaw, restoring part or all of your full smile.
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