A full arch replacement mimics all the natural contours, shape and form of natural teeth
No Workable Teeth? Need a Full Arch Dental Implants?
If you have missing, broken or decayed teeth, it can make a huge impact on your life. You can no longer enjoy the foods you love, may feel self-conscious and have a high risk of further oral complications. At Aria Dental, we understand that this is a difficult situation and are here to support you on your dental implant journey. If you have severely, irreparably damaged teeth &/or are missing a large number of teeth, a Full Arch Fixed Implant bridge is considered the best option.
What is a Full Arch Fixed Implant Bridge?
A full arch fixed implant bridge is a fixed dental solution designed to replace the upper &/or lower row of missing or decaying teeth. This full arch fixed implant bridge is made up of a full set of teeth that are fixed to your upper &/or lower jaw via dental implants. A full arch fixed implant bridge mimics the contours, shape and form of natural teeth.
Full Arch Dental Implants are a fixed implant treatment, as opposed to a removable treatment such as a removable denture or overdenture, which means that you are not able to remove the prosthesis from your mouth once fitted.
Typically, this full arch fixed implant bridge option offers a natural appearance. A Gum Set Ceramic Bridge is whereby the teeth appear to “emerge” from your natural gums. A full arch fixed implant bridge can also replace your missing teeth and maintain your gum tissue, giving you a beautiful and natural-looking smile.
A full arch fixed implant bridge is more complex than a typical All on 4, demonstrated by the fine crafting and contouring required to fit the new teeth against your existing jaw bone. A full arch bridge is much smaller than an All on 4, which allows the dentist to keep more of your natural jaw bone and provide a better fit & feel in your mouth due to its smaller size. For more information, refer to our article about All On 4 vs Full Arch Replacement.
Unlike a denture, there is no palatal coverage for an upper bridge, meaning it doesn’t cover the roof of your mouth. This is beneficial for patients who cannot tolerate wearing a full denture due to a gag reflex, and also makes eating and tasting food a better experience.
A ceramic full arch fixed implant bridge is the preferred long-term treatment option over other alternatives.
Dental or teeth implants are the preferred treatment option if you need a all teeth replacement
Here’s why:
Dental implants offer the most natural looking, feeling and functioning teeth result
Feels very similar to your natural teeth, similar aesthetics to natural looking teeth that allow you to eat all types of foods
The implant is fixed in your mouth which removes the mobility and discomfort that can occur with removable options
Dental implants prevent adjacent teeth from moving, creating alignment problems
Dental implants stimulate and preserve the remaining bone unlike removable dentures which can cause bone loss
The positive psychological impact with the feeling of being truly rehabilitated – no more missing teeth!
All Teeth Replacement Procedure
STEP 1: INITIAL CONSULT & DIAGNOSTICS
After a clear and informative discussion with Aria Dental’s specialist Prosthodontist, we require diagnostic records to be able to create your implant treatment plan accurately. This involves taking impressions (either moulds or digital scans) of your teeth to construct a study model and a surgical guide for our specialty dental laboratory to design your new implant. We will also take intra-oral and extra-oral x-rays, CT cone beam scans and take numerous clinical photographs. These records are essential for the planning phase and to determine the most appropriate treatment plan and costs for you.
STEP 2: IMPLANT PLACEMENT
This first procedure involves Aria Dental’s specialist Prosthodontist removing the decayed or unwanted teeth. The dental implants (tiny titanium screws) are then placed into the jawbone in a process known as immediate implant placements. The surgery is completed with any necessary bone and tissue grafting repair. A precise impression of your jawline is then taken to design your bridge/new teeth. In some instances, this may be done immediately and fitted on the same day. Normally a temporary ‘suck-down’ essix retainer or temporary bridge is fitted over the implant fixtures, and the final process is completed later.
Worried about leaving without teeth? Ask about our Aria Dental Same Day Teeth option.
STEP 3: PROVISIONAL PLACEMENT
After a period of healing, a wax model ‘try in’ appointment, and the design is completed by our expert laboratory technicians (who ensure everything is correct based on your aesthetic requirements, personality and facial characteristics), one of our Aria Dental implant experienced dentists will secure your Provisional (short term) Implant Prosthesis. The Provisional Implant Prosthesis is made of fibre-reinforced acrylic, and there are often fewer “teeth” on this prosthesis to reduce the amount of load distributed onto the implant fixtures as you continue through your healing phase.
STEP 4: DEFINITIVE PLACEMENT
After a healing period of approx 3 months, to allow the implant fixtures to osseointegrate (bond) into your jawbone, you’ll be fitted with your final Definitive Implant Prosthesis. Your Definitive will be more comfortable, as it has a more accurate fit and will be very strong – made up of bio-compatible titanium and ceramic materials. At Aria Dental, there is no “one size fits all” option, with all pieces custom-designed for an individual patient. Once your ‘teeth’ are fitted, you will be ready to go and show off your brand-new smile!
Dental Implant Fixed Full Arch Bridge Cost?
At Aria Dental, a quote for a Full Arch Fixed Implant Bridge would include the number of implant fixtures, their placement, the abutments, the provisional bridge and a final definitive bridge. Please note that the cost of your individual and specific all teeth replacement treatment will vary, as each individual has a different pathology and surgical needs. Your private health insurance may also cover a portion of your treatment costs, and early release super is also an option for full arch treatments.
Where a basic All on 4 dental implants treatment, made in Acrylic for a top or bottom jaw, starts from $25,000 – a custom-made Full Arch Dental Implant Bridge, hand crafted in ceramic / Zirconia, may start from approximately $35,000. Understanding the difference between Acrylic All on 4 and a custom Zirconia Full Arch is an important factor – and may save you money in the long term. With a custom Full Arch, your Dental Specialist, Dentists and Dental Laboratory Technicians work together to produce and design a custom dental bridge just for you. It is custom milled from a solid block of zirconia, then custom hand coloured and baked at ultra-high temperatures to ensure that the finished product is not only natural looking but almost indestructible! *Pricing guide only
For an accurate treatment plan for your full mouth dental implant treatment to match your personal needs, please book a complimentary consultation with our dental specialist, Dr Michael Zaninovich.
Aria’s Complimentary Dental Implant Consultations
At Aria Dental, we offer patients a complimentary dental implant consultation, which includes your appointment, an examination, and any x-rays or diagnostics required by our dentist to complete your detailed treatment plan. This no-out-of-pocket Aria service can cost up to $750 at other clinics.
Acrylic and Zirconia Full Arch Dental Bridges
Dental bridges or teeth inserts have long been used as a replacement for teeth that have been lost or extracted due to decay or damage. A dental implant-supported full-arch bridge is often the perfect solution for many patients. The dental implants provide a permanent foundation for the bridge, which replaces a full set of teeth and can be used on upper and lower jaws. The bridge will look, feel and function very similar to natural teeth. It should stand up to the daily wear and tear of eating and talking, and it should look natural and be comfortable. As an option, Aria prefers the advanatages of dental implants zirconia.
What is the Difference between Acrylic and Zirconia Dental Bridge?
There are 2x main material options in which your bridge can be made from, acrylic or zirconia. The dental implants serve the same function for both types of solutions, but the difference in the materials used to make the bridge significantly affects its final look, feel, and performance.
Composition
Acrylic – A liquid acrylic resin is poured into a mould, and, once it hardens, the casting is removed, traditional denture-like teeth are added, and the bridge is attached to the implants. Acrylic bridges are a very economical long-term solution. The teeth are not customised, and the plastic tends to deteriorate over a number of years and take up stains.
Zirconia – The full-arch bridge is precision-milled from a solid block of zirconia, hand-coloured and polished to match natural teeth & gums and anchored to dental implants. Zirconia bridges are very strong and provide a stable structure that dramatically reduces any movement while reducing the pressure/tension on the actual dental implants.
Durability
Acrylic bridges are cheaper than zirconia bridges but are required to be repaired or repolished every 2-3 years. General eating and talking can take a toll on the permeable acrylic resin, which causes it to attract plaque and bacteria buildup.
Acrylic often accumulates more plaque because it has a high surface tension. The acrylic teeth can wear down in a relatively short period of time, and they often need to be replaced after approximately 5- 7 years. If a person has a clenching or grinding habit, the risk of problems associated with the acrylic bridge is significantly higher.
Zirconia bridges are more expensive initially but are non-porous and far more durable. They require less maintenance and are considered cheaper over the long term. Zirconia bridges can withstand significant stress and are chip-resistant, and have less fractures and general wear. Zirconia has the lowest surface ‘free energy’, which means that bacteria do not adhere to its surface, reducing plaque – no other material has this feature.
Appearance
Acrylic bridges are aesthetically pleasing but tend to look more artificial. They stain fairly easily and require more professional cleaning than that of the zirconia prosthetic material. They are in the same aesthetic class as a traditional denture.
Zirconia bridges achieve a result that is very similar to natural teeth. The zirconia option is made from a single-block design. Zirconia is considered the most advanced restorative material available that can mimic the natural aspects and anatomical functions like natural teeth. Otherwise known as “white steel”, it is the most robust, resilient prosthetic material that does not change colour, accumulate stain, deteriorate, or wear over the years of function. Patients who have a clenching or grinding habit may be more suitable with a zirconia prosthesis due to its far superior structural properties compared to acrylic.
How are Zirconia Bridges made?
Zirconia bridges have been recognised as the best quality of bridge, which is solid, long-lasting, and visually appealing.
The process of making a zirconia bridge is a combination of dental science, artistic design and technology. First, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth, either with impression material or with a digital oral scan. The dentist then sends this impression to a dental laboratory, where a skilled technician makes a 3D model of your current teeth. The technician then cuts the mould into sections and scans each piece using state-of-the-art laboratory technology. They upload these scans into a computer with CAD software that helps the laboratory technician design your new smile.
You and your dentist will then thoroughly review a computer-generated model of your smile restoration. Once you, the laboratory technicians and your dentist are happy with the final design; they send the bridge design from their computer to a specialist dental milling/grinding machine. This machine reads the 3D computer design, and from a solid block of zirconia, the machine ‘mills’ this solid block into your new teeth.
After the milling is complete, the laboratory technicians will hand colour and polish to make your new teeth look natural and match your existing teeth. After this, they bake the teeth at a very high heat to harden. Once the baking is finished, the dental technician adds textures, smooths, and glazes the bridge to perfection. At this point, it is ready for the dentist to fit the bridge to your dental implants inside your mouth.
What are the Advantages of a Zirconia Full Arch over an Acrylic Full Arch?
Zirconia is stronger and much more durable than acrylic
Zirconia bridges do not look artificial. They are highly aesthetic and resemble natural teeth and gums
Solid zirconia bridges are non-porous, so they do not stain and are easy to clean
Implant-supported zirconia bridges are designed and manufactured using state-of-the-art technology to achieve a precise and comfortable fit
Your bridge is precision-milled from a solid block of zirconia, then hand-coloured and finished to match the natural look of your teeth and gums
Zirconia does not attract plaque and bacteria; it naturally repels plaque, minimises your risk of bad breath, gum disease, and other conditions that affect your overall health
Zirconia resists staining from coffee, tea, cigarette smoke, and red wine
Zirconia is unlikely to crack, chip, or break like acrylic bridges
Zirconia bridges are biocompatible (they are safe to stay in the mouth for a long time) and do not require a metal base/metal-free
Zirconia bridges resemble natural tooth enamel and can be easily modified, reshaped, and recoloured
Zirconia bridges are extremely durable
What are the Disadvantages of using Zirconia bridges?
Zirconia bridges may cost you more than Acrylic. However, it’s a one-time lifetime investment! If you go for a low-cost option, it may be more expensive in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tooth implants are required for an all teeth replacement / full mouth tooth replacement?
Every jaw is different. Our specialist Prosthodontist can advise you at your initial consult after reviewing your cone beam scan, x-rays & other diagnostics on your tooth replacement options. Typically, the minimum amount of implants would be four, the All on 4 procedure, but for better strength and longevity, our specialist may recommend more than four for your all-teeth replacement- a Full Arch Dental Implants solution.
Are there any negatives with dental implants?
All treatments have risks, and we advise all patients of these prior to commencing treatment. Overall, there are not many negatives with dental implants. Cost may be a consideration, as they are more expensive initially than traditional removable dentures or a dental bridge.
Can I replace all my teeth?
Yes, if your teeth are badly damaged and need to be extracted and replaced, you can undergo an all-teeth replacement. It is best to discuss your thoughts with a specialist before taking any permanent action, as once they are removed, you cannot undo this. At Aria, we believe in saving any teeth that we can. This can take more time, effort and surgical skill, but it is worth the effort. Should you need to remove all of your teeth, a full arch fixed implant treatment is your best replacement option.
What is the cost of a removable full arch support (teeth replacement) with implants?
The cost of a removable All on 4 support with implants starts from $25,000* (lower or upper). The cost of a full arch support – upper and lower is approximately from $35,000*. However, this is an approximate price guide, and other issues may affect your overall cost.
These prices are approximate, though, and for an accurate quote, we suggest you book a free consultation with our specialist prosthodontist, Dr Michael Zaninovich.
*Pricing information is up to date for 2022
Why do some people need to have a bone graft?
Some people need to have a bone graft before their dental implant procedure as they don’t have adequate bone volume to hold the dental implant in place. A bone graft will add bone tissue to the area, increasing the chance of success with the implant procedure.
Do dental implants hurt?
We offer you several different sedation options to put you at ease. You might not even remember the procedure at all. Also, you’ll be given plenty of local anaesthetic; if desired, you can learn more about sedation options. There is some swelling post-treatment, but we will give you a prescription to help manage any actual pain.
Would a dentist be prepared to remove all my teeth?
As dentists, we always recommend you hold onto your teeth as long as possible. However, if they are badly decayed, and you have severe gum disease, or there are other relevant reasons not to keep your teeth, an all teeth replacement may be the best option. Ideally, your teeth will be replaced with dental implants and either a removable implant-supported denture or full arch fixed bridge.
Do dental implants fail?
The failure rate for dental implants is approximately 5%.
How long do teeth implants last?
If cared for properly, tooth implants can last a lifetime. However, there are no guarantees. You can increase your chances of your dental implant lasting a long time by practising good oral hygiene and adhering to regular dental check-ups. Many dentists conservatively predict that implants will last at least 25 years.
