When it comes to full mouth rehabilitation using dental implants, patients often choose between two main options: full mouth implant bridges and full mouth implant dentures. Both approaches offer significant improvements over traditional dentures in terms of functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. However, they serve different needs and preferences. Understanding the distinctions between these two solutions can help in making an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and dental health goals.
Full Mouth Implant Bridge
A full mouth implant bridge, also known as a fixed implant bridge, involves the placement of dental implants across the jaw, which then support a series of connected crowns or a bridge. This option is fixed in place and can only be removed by a dental professional.
- Advantages:
- Stability and Comfort: Since the bridge is securely anchored to the implants, it offers excellent stability and comfort, closely mimicking the feel of natural teeth.
- Aesthetics: With the bridge designed to look like natural teeth, it provides a highly aesthetic solution.
- Functionality: Allows for near-normal biting and chewing capabilities.
- Durability: Typically offers a long-lasting solution with proper care.
Full Mouth Implant Denture
Full mouth implant dentures, often referred to as implant-supported dentures or overdentures, are a hybrid between traditional dentures and dental implants. This option involves attaching a removable denture to strategically placed implants in the jaw.
- Advantages:
- Improved Stability Over Traditional Dentures: Implant-supported dentures are less likely to shift or slip compared to traditional dentures, thanks to the anchorage provided by the implants.
- Ease of Cleaning: Because these can be removed, cleaning around the implants and the denture itself can be more straightforward.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally, this option requires fewer implants than a full bridge, potentially making it a more cost-effective solution.
- Comfort: Offers a significant improvement in comfort and function over traditional dentures.
Choosing the Right Option
The choice between a full mouth implant bridge and a full mouth implant denture depends on several factors, including the patient’s oral health status, budget, and personal preferences. While the implant bridge offers a more permanent, stable solution that closely mimics natural teeth, implant dentures provide a blend of improved stability with the convenience of removability, often at a lower initial cost.
Consulting with a dental professional who specializes in implantology is the best way to determine which option aligns with your specific needs and goals. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend the most suitable solution for restoring your smile and dental function.
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Keep reading to find out more and see some before and after pictures!
Before and After Gallery
Take a look at our before and after images to see the difference dental implants can make:
Spotlight on Dr. Arfeen Aslam
Dr. Arfeen Aslam is a distinguished Dentist with a Special Interest in dental implants. His journey began with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from the Guy’s, King’s and St. Thomas’ Dental Institute at the University of London in 2008. He has since accumulated a wealth of knowledge and expertise, completing his MFDS at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2012, and gaining certificates in advanced aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry (2013) and comprehensive oral implantology (2015).
Dr. Aslam’s clinical interests lie in full jaw dentistry involving dental implants and minimally invasive veneers, crowns, and onlays, aiming to provide comprehensive solutions for patients with missing or damaged teeth. His dedication to his craft has been recognized with several awards, including finalist positions for Best Single Implant and Best Single Crown at the Aesthetic Awards, as well as being named Winner of Best Young Dentist North West.
Currently, Dr. Aslam places and restores dental implants at the Vallance Dental Practice and takes referrals for implantology, oral surgery, and full mouth rehabilitations at the Parkfield Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Centre. His work is driven by a passion to offer full jaw solutions with dental implants, transforming the lives of those with missing or broken teeth.
For more on dental implants, visit Vallance Dental Centre Implants.
We look forward to helping you on your journey to a confident, radiant smile.