Did you know that an estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth and 40 million are missing all of their teeth? In aging populations over 65 years old, tooth loss is especially prevalent. If you are currently seeking a solution for missing or damaged teeth, you’re certainly not alone. But which tooth replacement option will best suit your particular needs and circumstances?
Dental implants have become the gold standard in tooth replacement over the past few decades. Permanent and durable, they look and function just like natural teeth while also feeling more natural than any other tooth replacement option available. That being said, investing in dental implants is a major decision and you want to feel completely confident that you’re making a wise and informed choice.
At Doctors Implants, our leading team of doctors and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons is often asked about the relative merits of single dental implants versus full-arch or full mouth dental implants. While we specialize exclusively in a cutting-edge full mouth implant procedure known as the 6 Hour Smile, it’s not the right solution for every patient. Below, we’ve put together an overview of the differences between single implants and full mouth implants to help you determine which treatment option may be right for you.
After reading the information below, get in touch with the Doctors Implants to schedule your free consultation and learn more about the 6 Hour Smile!
What Are Single Dental Implants?
A single-tooth implant is a tooth replacement solution that closely mimics the structure and function of a natural tooth. A titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone where it integrates over time (a process known as osseointegration), stimulating the jawbone and preventing bone loss just like a natural tooth root. A small connector called an abutment attaches the implant post to a prosthetic tooth (known as a crown) above the gum line.
Single dental implants are usually the preferred option in cases where just one tooth or a few single teeth require replacement. They do not undermine the integrity of surrounding healthy teeth and, once osseointegration occurs, they look, feel, and function just like their natural counterparts.
What Are Full-Arch Dental Implants?
Full-arch dental implants (which replace all the teeth in one arch, either top or bottom) or full mouth dental implants) are similar to single dental implants but support multiple prosthetic teeth instead of just one.
The most common full-arch implant technique, sometimes called all-on-four dental implants, involves the strategic placement of just four implants to support an entire arch of crowns. At Doctors Implants, we utilize this technique in our 6 Hour Smile to provide beautiful new smiles to patients seeking to replace all of their teeth due to edentulism and/or widespread damage.
Are There Cases Where Full-Arch Implants Are Required?
In cases where a full arch of teeth is missing and/or extensively damaged, full-arch implants are usually the preferred treatment option. While it might technically be possible to replace each missing tooth with its own single implant, this would be unnecessarily invasive and expensive. Full-arch dental implants stimulate the jawbone and provide structure to the face without requiring you to undergo an excessive number of implant procedures. If you’re not sure whether or not replacing an entire arch of teeth makes the most sense given your circumstances, your dentist or surgeon can provide further clarity.
Do Full-Arch Implants Take Longer To Heal?
Single implants and full-arch or full mouth implants heal at approximately the same rate. However, full mouth implant surgery represents a more extensive procedure overall and the healing period reflects this. It is reasonable to expect that receiving full mouth dental implants will initially have a greater impact on your daily routine than receiving just a single implant. Speak to your dentist or surgeon for more information about exactly what to expect in either case.
Can Multiple Missing Teeth Be Replaced With Single Tooth Implants?
In cases where multiple teeth need to be replaced but healthy teeth also remain, two or more single-tooth implants can be used to support bridges or partial dentures. At Doctors Implants, however, we do not offer bridges or dentures. Rather, we are entirely dedicated to executing our groundbreaking 6 Hour Smile with the utmost precision and expertise.
How Do I Decide Which Is the Right Choice for My Situation?
If you’re still uncertain about what type of dental implant procedure to pursue after reading the information in this post, it’s time to speak with an experienced dentist or oral surgeon. Generally, single dental implants are the better choice if you have just one or a few damaged teeth, while full-arch or full mouth implants are the preferred option for replacing four or more missing teeth. That being said, every case is unique and you may be surprised to discover new possibilities that can move you forward on your path towards the functional and beautiful smile of your dreams.
Contact Doctors Implants To Resolve All Your Implant Questions and Concerns
Ready to learn more about the 6 Hour Smile and embark on your full mouth implant journey with our world-class team of doctors? Contact us at Doctors Implants today to book your free consultation!
