Imagine a world where you can confidently bite into an apple or flash a perfect smile without worrying about dentures slipping or missing teeth.
Dental implants give you just that.
Over the past decade, dental implants have revolutionized the way we approach tooth loss, with millions of people opting for this durable and natural-looking solution. In fact, the global dental implant market is projected to reach $8.06 billion by 2026.
But can you get all your teeth removed and replaced with implants?
Let’s find out!
How Dental Implants Work
A dental implant substitutes a missing natural tooth with an artificial titanium root. Then, an artificial tooth is affixed to serve as the crown or the visible portion of the tooth. This implant acts as a permanent anchor, maintaining the structure of the gum and bone.
In more ways than one, a dental implant enables your artificial tooth to function similarly to a natural one.
Why Do People Opt for Implants?
People opt for dental implants because they begin to face multiple issues due to their missing teeth. Some of them include:
Blow to Self-Esteem & Confidence: Missing teeth can significantly impact a person’s appearance, often leading to self-consciousness and lowered self-esteem.
Facial Structure Changes: Missing teeth can alter the contours of the face, resulting in a sunken appearance around the mouth and cheeks, aging your overall look.
Difficulty Chewing: Tooth loss can make it difficult to effectively chew food, restricting dietary choices and potentially causing nutritional deficiencies.
Speech Impairments: Missing teeth can cause slurred speech or difficulty pronouncing certain words, impacting clear communication.
Bone Loss: Missing teeth can lead to bone resorption, where the bone diminishes over time.
Shifting Teeth: Gaps from missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to shift towards the empty space, leading to misalignment and other dental issues.
Tooth Decay & Gum Disease: Missing teeth can create spaces that are harder to clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease in surrounding teeth.
Can I Have All My Teeth Removed & Replaced with Implants?
Yes, it is possible to obtain an entirely new set of teeth, a common choice for those who have endured dental issues for years.
Permanent dental implants are constructed from metals like titanium or zirconia. These implants are securely embedded into the gum line, functioning like the roots of natural teeth. Replacement teeth are then attached to these implants.
Dental implants are a lifetime solution and are viewed as a permanent fix for tooth loss. Procedures such as All-on-4 and All-on-6 implant surgeries can provide a new set of teeth for either one jaw or the entire mouth.
This solution is not only permanent and efficient but also helps prevent bone loss or erosion and the facial sagging often associated with dentures.
Implant Tooth Replacement Options for Replacing All Your Teeth
All-on-4 Dental Implants
In an All-on-4 procedure, four to eight dental implants are used to support a permanent full-arch prosthetic for the upper or lower jaw.
Often, patients undergoing this procedure can receive new teeth in just one day. Your implant dentist or dental surgeon will help determine if you are a suitable candidate for this teeth-in-a-day procedure.
Implant Retained Dentures
Implant dentures resemble traditional dentures but are attached to two to six implants, which securely anchor the prosthetic to your jawbone. This ensures full bite-force support and prevents the denture from slipping or shifting.
Snap-on Dentures
Snap-on dentures operate similarly to implant-retained dentures. Two to six dental implants support the lower jaw’s prosthesis. Despite this, snap-on dentures are as easy to insert and remove from your mouth as removable dentures. In contrast to traditional removable dentures, however, a snap-on denture promotes healthy jawbone growth.
Factors That Determine Your Eligibility for Full-Mouth Implants
Bone Density
Sufficient jawbone density is crucial to support the implants securely. Bone grafting may be necessary if there is inadequate bone structure.
Overall Health
Good general health is essential for undergoing surgery and healing effectively. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or certain autoimmune disorders may affect candidacy.
Gum Health
Healthy gums are necessary to support the implants. Periodontal (gum) disease must be treated before considering implants.
Smoking
Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. Dentists often recommend quitting smoking before implant surgery.
Commitment to Oral Care
Patients must demonstrate a commitment to maintaining proper oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups post-surgery.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
When it comes to restoring your teeth with dental implants, there is no universal approach. Your specific requirements, preferences, and guidance from an implant specialist will all influence the most suitable treatment plan for you.
During your first consultation, your dentist will assist you in selecting the optimal treatment path based on your examination, needs, and personal preferences.
Conclusion
The decision for “Can I have all my teeth removed and replaced with implants?” is a significant one that requires the consideration of multiple factors. While dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking solution to tooth loss, they may not be suitable for everyone.
Make sure that you consult with a qualified implant dentist who can assess your case based on your oral health, bone density, overall health, and personal preferences to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
Book a consultation with the implant experts at ProGrace Dentistry and find out if you are eligible for full-mouth implants!
FAQs
How much do full-mouth dental implants cost?
The price of full-mouth dental implants varies based on your specific situation; simpler cases may require less preparation, while others may involve extractions or bone grafting, affecting overall costs. Insurance coverage also plays a major role in determining the final expense of dental implants.
Is it safe to replace all my teeth with dental implants?
Yes, replacing all your teeth with dental implants is generally safe, provided you’re a suitable candidate with good oral and overall health and a qualified implant dentist performs the procedure.
