Have you come across references to full-arch procedures in your dental implant research and wondered exactly what this term means? You don’t have to be an oral health expert in order to undergo implant surgery (that’s our job), but having a clear understanding of some basic dental terminology can help you to make the most informed decisions possible—and feel confident every step of the way.
So, what is a dental arch?
The term dental arch refers to one of the two U-shaped rows of teeth in the mouth. The upper arch, also known as the maxillary arch, and the lower arch, also known as the mandibular arch, together contain all of your teeth.
Dental arches, together with the jawbone, help maintain the structure of the lower part of the face. When properly aligned, they contribute to numerous critical functions, including:
- Proper biting and efficient chewing
- Clear speech
- An even, aesthetically-pleasing smile
- The stability and structure of the jaw
If you live with multiple damaged or missing teeth, it’s likely that the alignment of your dental arches—and overall dental health—has suffered as a result. Below, we’ve taken a closer look at the structure of dental arches and how customized dental implants can restore the health, function, and aesthetics of your smile.
The Structure Of Dental Arches
Each of the two dental arches in your mouth consists of three major components—the teeth, the alveolar bone, and the gums:
- The Teeth – These include the incisors, canines, premolars, and molars on the top and bottom. A typical adult has sixteen upper teeth and sixteen lower teeth, though some may have fewer if wisdom teeth are removed.
- The Alveolar Bone – This is the specialized bone in the jaw that anchors and supports the teeth.
- The Gums – Gums are made of soft tissue that surrounds and protects the teeth and alveolar bone.
Dentures mimic the structure of a natural dental arch with artificial teeth attached to a base material that rests over the gums. Unlikely implants, dentures are removable and do not provide the same level of stability or long-term function. In comparison, dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone, providing patients with a tooth replacement option that looks, feels, and functions more like natural teeth than any other.
Full-Arch Dental Implants
Full-arch dental implants replace all of the teeth in one of the dental arches—either the upper or lower jaw. This type of procedure is often recommended in cases where one arch of teeth remains relatively healthy and well aligned.
Full Mouth Implants
Full mouth dental implants replace all of the teeth in both arches—top and bottom. This type of procedure is often recommended in cases where both arches have multiple missing, damaged, or significantly misaligned teeth.
Implant And Denture Arches Are Customized For Each Patient
At Doctors Implants, we use cutting-edge digital technology to achieve unparalleled precision and customize smiles to the exact bite, facial structure, and aesthetic preferences of each patient. Contact us today to set up a free consultation and learn more!
Doctors Implants Specializes In Same-Day Full-Arch Dental Implants
Seeking or full-arch dental implants? The world-class team of dental implant experts at Doctors Implants specializes in state-of-the-art, same-day dental implant procedures. Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward a healthy, beautiful smile that’s indistinguishable from natural teeth!