Full Arch Implant-Supported Fixed Dentures: A Clinical Overview for Dentists
Full arch implant-supported fixed dentures are a predictable and long-lasting solution for edentulous patients. These restorations consist of zirconia or porcelain bridges affixed to multiple endosseous implants, offering both function and esthetics for patients who have lost all their teeth in one or both arches.
Indications
This treatment is suitable for:
* Fully or partially edentulous patients requiring a full-arch rehabilitation
* Patients with severe tooth decay or structurally compromised dentition
* Cases with periodontal bone loss requiring extraction
* Patients with sufficient bone volume or those eligible for grafting procedures
Treatment Timeline (for international patients)
* Number of visits: 2 clinical visits
* Stay duration:
* Visit 1: 2–3 days (implant surgery and temporary)
* Visit 2: 5–7 days (final prosthesis placement)
* Healing period:
* Short-term: 7–10 days for soft tissue recovery
* Long-term: 3 months for osseointegration
Clinical Workflow
1. Initial Consultation & Imaging
Clinical examination with OPG or CBCT is performed to assess bone availability and anatomical structures. Once the case is accepted, impressions or intraoral scans are taken for digital planning and prosthetic design.
2. Surgical Phase
Extractions (if necessary) and implant placement (typically 6–8 implants per arch) are performed under local anesthesia. Implants are positioned at ideal angulations to maximize support and avoid anatomical structures.
3. Immediate Temporary Prosthesis
Depending on primary stability, a temporary full-arch bridge is delivered within 24 hours post-surgery. This helps preserve soft tissue contours and restores function immediately.
4. Healing & Final Prosthesis Delivery
After 3 months of healing, the final prosthesis (monolithic zirconia or porcelain-fused framework) is fabricated and delivered. Occlusion and esthetics are verified before final torquing and sealing of screw access channels.
Clinical Advantages
Why choose full arch implant-supported fixed dentures?
Benefits:
* Fully fixed, highly retentive solution
* High patient satisfaction and long-term durability
* No movement during function, unlike removable dentures
* Esthetic and functional outcome closely mimics natural dentition
* Effective for patients with advanced ridge resorption
Drawbacks:
* Requires surgical expertise and advanced planning
* Multi-visit treatment with healing time
* Higher cost than removable solutions
Post-Op & Aftercare Guidance
Dentists should advise patients on the following:
* Swelling: Apply cold packs intermittently for the first 36 hours
* Bleeding: Minor bleeding is normal; pressure with sterile gauze is recommended
* Medication: Prescribe appropriate antibiotics and pain relief
* Physical activity: Should be limited in the first few days post-op
* Prosthesis use: Avoid using any removable appliances for at least 10 days post-surgery
* Oral hygiene: Soft brushing, chlorhexidine rinses, and regular follow-ups recommended
* Diet: Liquid to soft foods for the first week, gradual return to solids over 2–3 weeks
Material Options (Lab-Fabricated)
* Framework: Titanium or CrCo base
* Final Prosthesis:
* Monolithic Zirconia
* Porcelain layered zirconia or PMMA (provisional)
* Composite-based hybrids (optional)
Common Clinical Questions
Q: Who are ideal candidates?
Edentulous patients or those requiring full-arch extractions with sufficient bone or grafting potential.
Q: Does the procedure cause pain?
Mild postoperative discomfort is expected; managed with standard analgesics. Severe pain is rare.
Q: Can patients eat normally?
Yes, after healing. Patients should begin with soft food and gradually return to normal diet within weeks.
Risks & Success Rates
* Implant success rate: 95–98%
* Complications:
* Peri-implantitis
* Prosthetic screw loosening or fracture
* Rare cases of hypersensitivity to implant alloys
Alternative Treatment Options
* All-on-4: Fewer implants, graftless option
* Removable Acrylic Dentures: Cost-effective but non-fixed option
Work With Godent
Godent provides fully integrated workflows for full-arch implant cases, including:
* Real-time scan review and planning support
* Guided surgery-ready digital plans
* Temporary and final prosthetic fabrication
* Fast turnaround and seamless clinician-lab communication
Let us help you deliver high-quality, full-arch fixed solutions with confidence.
%201.webp)
