There are many people who are missing most or all of their teeth. Tooth loss can happen due to age, poor oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth decay, dental trauma, or even genetic predispositions. When someone is missing just one or two teeth, dental implants or bridges are common solutions. However, when all or most of the teeth are missing, full mouth dental implants, also called All-on-X or All-on-4 implants, may be a better option.
In this guide, we’ll go in-depth on what full mouth dental implants are, how they work, and who is the right candidate for them. And remember, if you’re looking for a quality dentist who can provide dental implants in Chico, California, New Smile Now has you covered.
What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants?
To understand full mouth dental implants, you first need to know how standard dental implants work. When a patient is only in need of one or two teeth, regular dental implants are the best option. Essentially, a dental implant is an artificial tooth that is implanted into the gum and jawbone so that it functions like a regular tooth. The actual implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jaw. It fuses with the jawbone to help anchor the rest of the prosthesis. Generally, an abutment is attached to the top of the implant, and a crown (dental cap or artificial tooth) is placed securely on top of the abutment.
However, when a patient is missing most or all of their teeth on the top or bottom bridge of their month, the process of full mouth dental implants, called All-on-X, is quite different. All-on-X implants consist of four to six posts that are placed across the entire bridge with a permanent arch of teeth attached to the posts. This allows for less bone loss and pain, as well as faster healing and stability. During the initial implant procedure, any remaining teeth in the arch are removed, and four to six implants are placed in the jaw. The patient is then fitted with a removable arch for the next few months while the jaw heals. Once the jaw has fully healed with the new implants, the permanent arch is placed, and the patient’s new smile is complete.
Who Is a Good Candidate For Full Mouth Dental Implants?
While you might think that anyone who is missing all or most of their teeth should get full mouth (All-on-X) dental implants, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, there are many factors that could disqualify someone from All-on-X implants, even if they may qualify for something similar, like a dental bridge. Since dental implants are a long-term solution, candidates are generally considered if they are willing and able to practice good oral hygiene. Additionally, here are some people who could potentially be good candidates for full mouth dental implants:
- Those aged 18 or over (the jawbone needs to be fully developed)
- People who are missing at least 8 adult teeth
- Patients who have not experienced severe jawbone deterioration due to illness or advanced age
- Non-smokers
- Patients with healthy gums
- People who are dissatisfied with traditional dentures
- Patients who are healthy enough for oral surgery
Naturally, it’s important that you consult with a trained dentist to determine if dental implants are right for you. Even if you don’t meet all of the above criteria, your dentist may still proceed with dental implants. For example, if you’re willing to quit smoking or seek treatment for gum disease, you could be a good candidate for All-on-X full mouth dental implants in the near future.
Get Your All-on-X Dental Implants With New Smile Now
Are you missing at least 8 adult teeth? Are you tired of dealing with ill-fitting dentures? Do you want a long-term solution that will give you a better smile? Finally, are you looking for a quality dental clinic in Chico, California? If so, the experts at New Smile Now can help. Even if All-on-X full mouth dental implants are not the best choice for you, New Smile Now has the expertise to help you on your journey to a newer, brighter smile. Reach out to us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!
