Full mouth implants, also known as full upper and lower jaw implants, are a practical method for replacing all teeth in the upper and lower jaw on implant-supported foundations.
This procedure is usually performed using three main methods:
- All-on-4 implant
- All-on-6 implant
- All-on-8 implant
Of course, each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, we have tried to familiarize you with important topics such as the cost of full upper and lower jaw implants and the stages of full mouth dental implants.
Confirmed by the dental specialists at Dr. Bonyanian’s clinic.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only. Before taking any action, consult with the dentists at Dr. Bonyanian’s clinic for treatment.
The best and most suitable artificial tooth replacement for those who have lost all or a large number of their teeth is the full mouth implant in both the upper and lower jaws. This is a safe solution that is considered the most durable method for replacing your lost teeth.
But don’t be afraid! It is not as if an implant post will be placed in your mouth for each of your teeth. Instead, this method has special techniques that can make you the owner of a set of straight, uniform, and of course, durable teeth with the minimum number of implant posts.
What is a Full Mouth (Full-Jaw) Implant?
A full mouth implant is a procedure in which all the teeth in one or both jaws of a person are replaced using implants. [2] These implants act as artificial tooth roots and are placed inside the jawbone.
After the wounds have healed and the implant has fused with the jawbone, a dental crown is placed on the person’s implants to give them a natural appearance and function similar to natural teeth.
What is a Full-Mouth Implant?
A full-mouth implant is the same as a full upper and lower jaw implant. It is a new and effective method in dentistry that is suitable for people who have lost all or most of their teeth.
In this method, a specific number of implants (usually 4 or 6) are placed in the upper and lower jaw, and then a fixed and complete dental prosthesis is placed on them. In this way, the patient gets fixed and complete teeth in one stage.
The All-on-4 and All-on-6 methods are two common methods for performing full-mouth implants, in which 4 and 6 fixtures are used, respectively. These methods are very popular due to their advantages such as faster completion, lower cost compared to planting individual implants, and improving the quality of life of patients.
What is the Difference Between a Full Implant and a Denture?
A full mouth implant is one of the methods of replacing an extracted tooth in which the dental prostheses are placed on strong implant foundations. This means that your teeth will be fixed in place. On the other hand, a denture is a removable prosthesis that is only placed on the person’s gums (it is not attached to anything).
Types of Full Mouth Implants (Full-Mouth Dental Implants)
Depending on the number of implants used and the placement method, full mouth implants are divided into different types. In the following, we will examine each of these types.
1. All-on-4 Implant (All on Four)
The All-on-4 implant is one of the new and advanced methods in dentistry that is used to replace all the lost teeth in one jaw. In this method, only four titanium implants are used to support a full prosthesis. [5] These implants are placed in a special way in the jawbone so that they can support the prosthesis well. [6]
In simpler terms, imagine that you want to replace all the teeth in a jaw with artificial teeth. In the traditional method, you would need a large number of implants to be able to hold this prosthesis well. But in the All-on-4 method, by using a smart design, you can replace all the teeth in one jaw with just four implants. This reduces the number of surgeries, shortens the treatment time, and reduces costs.
The All-on-4 dental implant is suitable for people who have lost all the teeth in one jaw and also for people who cannot tolerate more implants due to bone loss in their jaw.
Reading the article on “Bone Grafting for Implants” will also provide you with good information about the jawbone grafting process.
Advantages of All-on-4 Implants
- Due to the use of fewer implants, the cost of this method is lower than other full implant methods. [6]
- Surgery for placing four implants is simpler and less invasive than placing a larger number of implants.
- Due to the simpler surgery, the recovery period after the operation is also shorter.
- Despite using fewer implants, the prosthesis is well connected to the jawbone and has very high stability.
- The prosthesis made on these implants has a completely natural appearance and is not distinguishable from natural teeth.
- With this prosthesis, you can easily chew food and talk.
2. All-on-6 Implant (All on Six)
The All-on-6 implant is a stronger and more advanced type of full mouth implant for replacing all the lost teeth in one jaw. [15]
In this method, six titanium (or roxolid) implants are used to support a full prosthesis. These implants are placed strategically and in specific and precise points in the jawbone to be able to hold the prosthesis firmly and stably. [26]
In the All-on-6 method, by using six implants and their special design, a complete prosthesis can be placed on the jaw in a fixed and firm manner. This method allows the patient to eat comfortably, talk, and have a beautiful smile.
Also, to learn about the cost of dental implants with Kosar insurance, you can refer to the relevant article.
Advantages of All-on-6 Implants
- Due to the use of six implants, the prosthesis is well connected to the jawbone and has very high stability. [20]
- The prosthesis made on these implants has a completely natural appearance and is not distinguishable from natural teeth.
- With this prosthesis, you can eat and talk comfortably.
- Compared to methods that use a larger number of implants, the surgery is simpler and less invasive.
- It is stronger than a 4-post dental implant.
- Due to the simpler surgery, the recovery period after the operation is also shorter.
- With proper care, All-on-6 implants can last a lifetime for you.
Read More: List of Dental Implant Specialists
Difference between 4-post and 6-post dental implants
In a 4-post dental implant, the surgical cost is lower, the surgery is simpler, and the recovery period is shorter. This method is suitable for people whose jawbone has resorbed. On the other hand, a 6-post dental implant provides greater stability for the prosthesis and better distribution of pressure on the jawbone.
3. All-on-8 Full Mouth Implant
If the dentist uses 8 fixtures to place the implants in your mouth, that method of full implant is called All-on-8. It is a practical technique in which eight titanium implants are placed in the jawbone and then a fixed and complete dental prosthesis is placed on them.
An 8-post dental implant has the most stability and strength among these three methods and is more suitable for people who need stronger support for their prosthesis.
That is, if your dentist feels that your jawbone condition is unstable, they will probably suggest that you use the All-on-8 method instead of the All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implant methods.
Advantages of All-on-8 Implants
- Higher stability and strength compared to other full implant methods.
- More natural appearance.
- Prevents bone resorption, preserves the shape of the face and youthfulness.
- The person gets fixed and complete teeth in the shortest possible time.
- Uniform distribution of chewing force pressure between the eight implants, which increases the life of the dental prosthesis.
- Feeling of comfort and naturalness for the patient.
Number of Implant Posts Required for the Whole Mouth
There is no definitive answer for the number of dental implant posts needed for everyone. This is because this number will usually vary based on factors such as the number of your lost teeth and the quality and quantity of your jawbone.
However, the average number of implant posts required in the full-mouth method will usually vary between 11 and 16 posts.
Full Upper Jaw Implant
If you have lost all of your upper teeth, a full upper jaw implant, which is sometimes called a full-jaw implant, is the best solution for restoring your smile and chewing function.
Of course, you should note that the upper jaw implant is more sensitive than the lower jaw implant due to the presence of sinuses. Therefore, if you intend to implant your entire upper jaw, be sure to see a reputable dentist for this procedure.
How many implants are needed for the upper jaw?
You should use 6 to 8 units of implants for a full upper jaw implant. However, this number may be less (up to 4 units) or more (up to 10 units) depending on the dentist’s diagnosis.
Jawbone density, the amount of bone resorption, the number of lost teeth, the implant placement method, and the patient’s expectations from the treatment are all factors that are effective in determining the number of implants.
How are the stages of a full upper jaw implant?
A full upper jaw implant includes several main stages. First, the dentist will develop a suitable treatment plan for you by carefully examining the condition of your mouth and teeth.
Then, the implant placement surgery is performed in a separate session, and in this stage, the implants are placed in the jawbone.
After a period of time when the implants have fused with the bone, the abutments are placed on the implants, and finally, a fixed or removable dental prosthesis is placed on the abutments.
Full Lower Jaw Implant
If a person has lost all of their lower teeth, the dentist can use the full lower jaw implant method for them.
In this method, all the lower teeth are replaced with fixed artificial teeth. Also, because there are fewer sensitive nerves and structures in the lower jaw than in the upper jaw, the surgery is usually easier and simpler and does not require additional surgery such as a sinus lift.
How many implants are needed for the lower jaw?
Although the exact number of implants for the lower jaw is not something we can announce in advance, we know that the approximate number of implants needed for the lower jaw is between 4 and 10.
Jawbone density (and its ability to hold implants) and also the number of lost teeth are also very important and determining factors for specifying the number of fixtures required.
Advantages of Full Mouth Implants
Due to the advantages of full mouth implants, this method has become one of the most popular options for people who are facing the problem of tooth loss. Some of these advantages include the following.
Natural and beautiful appearance
Implants are designed to have a completely natural appearance and are not distinguishable from natural teeth. As a result, a full mouth implant helps you to have a beautiful smile and higher self-confidence.
Also, implants are made according to the shape and size of your natural teeth and therefore are in complete harmony with your face. While this level of customization is not possible for prostheses or artificial teeth.
Excellent performance
Implants allow you to easily chew all kinds of your favorite foods and enjoy eating to the fullest. They not only do not interfere with your speech process, but also allow you to speak easily and very fluently.
Prevention of jawbone resorption
Another very prominent advantage of dental implants compared to artificial prostheses is maintaining the health of the jawbone. Because when you implant your entire upper and lower jaw, your jawbone is stimulated to build bone. As a result, the lower half of your face will not sag and your facial features will be preserved.
High durability and longevity
Implants can last a lifetime for you with proper care. They have high resistance to decay and discoloration and have a lifespan several times longer than dental prostheses.
Ease of use
Cleaning implants is like natural teeth. That is, the same routine and regular processes such as brushing and flossing are enough for them. Also, unlike artificial teeth, implants do not require the use of adhesive.
With a full mouth implant, you can eat any type of food with ease. Unlike dentures, they do not need to be replaced frequently and, in general, using them is much simpler than artificial teeth.
Disadvantages of Full Mouth Implants
- The cost of a full mouth implant is much higher than a denture.
- Failure of the implant to fuse with the bone can lead to the failure of the entire treatment process.
- The recovery period for this procedure is very long.
- During the treatment, you will practically not be able to eat any food for several months.
Who are full mouth implants suitable for?
People who have lost a large number of their teeth are the best candidates for full mouth implants. After that group, people who are tired of their removable artificial teeth are also a suitable option for getting full mouth implants.
In general, anyone who is looking for a permanent solution to replace their lost teeth can use full mouth implants.
Who are full upper and lower jaw implants not suitable for?
It is true that full upper and lower jaw implants are a good way to replace all the teeth in both jaws at once; but this method may not be suitable for some people. That is, there are some specific medical conditions and individual factors that may affect the success or failure of this method.
For example, people who are suffering from gum disease are better off either not getting a full implant, or taking action to treat their gum disease before starting this treatment. Because gum disease can weaken the jawbone and cause the implant to fail.
People with weak immune systems are also not good candidates for full implant surgery. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes, AIDS, or people undergoing chemotherapy are all in this category and are more at risk of infection after implant surgery.
Systemic diseases such as heart, vascular, and blood clotting disorders can also affect the outcome of your implant. People who have habits such as bruxism or smoking may damage their implants. So it is better if they do not get their teeth implanted.
Osteoporosis is also one of the very important factors that affects the success of the implant, because a weak bone cannot even hold an implant well, let alone all these implants.
Stages of Full Upper and Lower Jaw Implants
Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your mouth and teeth in the first stage to choose the best treatment option for you.
After determining the exact number of required posts, the process of your dental implant surgery will begin.
In the surgery stage, the implants are carefully placed in the designated locations in the jawbone.
After the surgery, you will be given about 5 months to allow the implants to fuse with the jawbone.
After complete recovery, the dental crowns are placed on the implants.
How long does a full upper and lower jaw implant take?
The duration of a full upper and lower jaw implant, or full-mouth implant, depends on various factors. For example, the patient’s jawbone density, the number of implants required, the All-on-4 or All-on-6 placement method, and also the presence or absence of the need for initial measures such as bone grafting.
But if we want to explain in general how long the dental implant process takes, we must say that:
The initial stages of the implant process, including consultation, examination, checking the condition of the mouth and teeth, and taking impressions, is a process of 1 to 3 sessions. (Learn more about how long it takes to take a dental implant impression).
The stage of surgery and placing the fixture inside the jawbone is usually done in one session.
It takes about 3 to 6 months for the fixture to fuse with your jawbone.
In the last stage, the dental prosthesis is placed on the dental implant posts, which this stage is also done in one session.
All these stages will take a maximum of 6 months, and in the best case, 3 months. Therefore, from the time the initial stages begin until you have fixed and complete teeth, you may need several months.
For detailed information about your treatment time, it is best to see an implant doctor.
Full mouth implant at Dr. Bonyanian’s dental clinic
Given the high sensitivity of full mouth implant placement, choosing a reputable dental center is of particular importance. Because the slightest mistake in this path can lead to the failure of the dental implant process and the loss of your time and money.
At Dr. Bonyanian’s clinic, with years of experience in the field of dental implant placement, we assure you that we will perform this process for you with the utmost care and precision, and we will give you a smile that will last for many years.
The dentists at Dr. Bonyanian’s dental clinic always strive to provide the best services to patients by using the most advanced dental equipment and relying on their up-to-date knowledge and skills. The coordination of these two factors guarantees the success of the implant treatments.
Care after full mouth implant
After a full mouth implant, observing a series of special care is very important for maintaining the health and longevity of the implants. For example, in the first few days after surgery, you should try to rest enough; avoid strenuous activities and take prescribed medications (such as painkillers and antibiotics) according to the doctor’s instructions.
Also, in the first few days, you should avoid eating hard and chewy foods and use a cold compress to reduce swelling of your face.
During the time you are waiting for your jawbone to fuse, you should also clean your implants daily and carefully; avoid harmful habits such as smoking, nail biting, and opening bottle caps with your teeth, and also avoid eating hard and sticky foods.
Observing these care tips will help your implants to fuse properly with your jawbone and also to be able to use them for many years.
Recovery time for full mouth implant placement
After placing the implant posts, your body needs at least three to four months for these posts to fully fuse with the jawbone. Although this is an approximate range and the exact duration of this process depends on various factors such as the patient’s general health and the density of their jawbone.
How long is the lifespan of a full mouth implant?
The higher the quality of the dental implant brand you are using, and the better you can take care of your implants, the longer the lifespan of your implant will be.
For example, in ideal conditions, Straumann Swiss brand dental implants can remain in your mouth for the rest of your life. However, American implant brands may have a shorter lifespan, and Korean implants may have a shorter lifespan than American ones.
You can get very good information about the lifespan and quality of different types of implants from different countries by studying the articles on Iranian dental implants, Swiss dental implants, and types of German implants.
Cost of Full Mouth Implants
The cost of a full mouth implant depends on various factors such as the number of implants, the type and brand of implant used, the need or lack of need for tooth extraction, and the dentist’s experience in placing the dental implant fixture.
You can study the dental implant cost page for more and more detailed information about the cost of a full mouth implant, or call 00982188539720.
Conclusion
A full mouth implant is a permanent and effective solution for replacing lost teeth. With this method, you can achieve a beautiful smile and a function completely similar to natural teeth.
So if you are looking for a long-term solution to solve your dental problems, a full mouth implant can be a very suitable option for you.
Dr. Nazi Bonyanian
Dental Surgeon (DDS) — Medical Council Number: 138662
Graduate of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences with over 15 years of experience in implants, laminates, and oral and dental surgery.
Address: No. 22, Unit 7, West Alley 6, Bokharest Street, Argentina Sq., Tehran, Iran
Phone: +98-21-88539720 | WhatsApp: +98-912-514-2202
Email: info@drbonyanian.com
Working Hours: Sat–Wed 09:00–20:00 | Thu 09:00–14:00 | Friday Closed
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