Full Mouth Dental Implants Near Me

Simply put, a single dental implant replaces one missing tooth, while full mouth dental implants replace multiple missing teeth. The latter is a much more comprehensive solution. Dentists strategically position multiple implants to support a complete arch of prosthetic teeth.

Your upper and lower jaws are not the same. Consequently, implant treatments will not be identical for both.

The upper jaw, or maxilla, tends to have softer bone than the lower jaw, or mandible. That means some patients may require additional support in the maxilla to achieve stability for their restoration. Since the mandible has denser bone, it can provide strong support with fewer implants.

The shape of each arch matters as well. Dentists consider where the implants should be placed and how forces will be distributed when you bite and chew.

“Immediate” and “delayed” are not two different kinds of prosthetics but terms that describe when the implant is placed in relation to tooth extraction.

With an immediate one, it is placed directly after a tooth is removed. When the conditions are right, this approach can reduce the number of separate surgical appointments and shorten parts of the overall treatment timeline.

In cases where the extraction site needs time to heal, dentists may recommend waiting. That is what we call delayed implants. They can be especially important if you require a bone graft or have other factors that make immediate placements less suitable.

These are designed to become integrated with the jawbone through osseointegration. However, “permanent” does not mean you never have to maintain or replace anything.

The implant posts can last for many years, potentially a lifetime, with proper care, but the prosthetic teeth can still experience normal wear. Do not skip good oral hygiene, professional care, and regular checkups.

During the surgical procedure, you will be under anesthesia and comfort measures. Afterward, some soreness, swelling, or discomfort can occur. That is a normal part of the recovery process.

Do not worry! Your dentist will provide post-operative instructions and recommend pain management strategies or medications.

The surgical portion can take several hours, depending on the number of implants being placed and the condition of your mouth. Remember, surgery is only one part of the overall process. Your overall timeline may be extended due to additional procedures and healing. Your dentist can give you a more accurate timeline once your treatment plan has been created.

Healing happens in stages. The first one to two weeks will be all about your gums and surrounding tissues. Swelling is typically most noticeable early in the recovery period and should start improving within the first couple of days.

Then there is the longer healing phase, during which the implants fuse with the jawbone within two to six months. You will not feel it, so your dentist will monitor you and let you know when you are ready to move on to the final placement.

Some minor bleeding may occur during the first 24 hours; use gauze and apply gentle pressure to the surgical sites. During the first 48 hours, apply an ice pack and rest with your head elevated to help reduce swelling.

Strenuous exercise and vigorous physical activity can increase blood flow and potentially contribute to bleeding or discomfort. So, take it easy for a little while.

Most importantly, follow your dentist’s specific aftercare instructions. Your recovery plan is based on what transpired during your procedure; personalized tips are more important than generic advice.

Your mouth may be a little tender immediately after surgery, but you may eat soft, nutritious foods within 24 to 48 hours. Go for meals that are easy to chew and do not require much effort. As your recovery progresses, you can gradually work your way toward more solid foods.

Whether you still have real teeth or already need replacements, you must take care of your gums and jawbone. Regarding full mouth dental implants, these two are essential.

For one, if you do not have sufficient bone volume or density, your implants may lack adequate support. In those situations, you will undergo a bone graft or another preparatory procedure. Moreover, enough bone height and width are a must to place an appropriately sized implant in a stable position.

Gum tissue is a protective barrier around the implants. If you have gum disease, it can contribute to inflammation and bone loss, putting your long-term implant health at risk.

Care should not stop once you have new teeth. Continue brushing and cleaning around your restoration, attending regular appointments, and following your dentist’s recommendations to keep your gums and jawbone healthy.

Yes! At Ocotillo Dentistry, we have Dr. Cosio, who has an education and ongoing advanced training. When considering full-mouth rehabilitation, you can count on him to listen to your concerns and explain your options. Also, the rest of the team is friendly and eager to make your restorative journey the best thing to ever happen to you.