Various reasons such as tooth injury, tooth decay, or periodontal disease cause tooth loss. Dental implants are a reliable restoration option when it comes to missing teeth. A full mouth dental implant is a procedure that replaces all your missing teeth as well as some of their roots. They look and function like natural teeth and are cared for in the same way. They are a great alternative to conventional dentures.
Types of Dental Implants
The two major types of dental implants are endosteal and subperiosteal.
Endosteal
This is the most common type of dental implant that is surgically inserted deep into the jawbone and acts as an artificial root. It makes use of small screws or cylinders.
Subperiosteal
This type of implant is rarely used today. The subperiosteal implant is inserted under the gum and above or on the bone only when there is not enough healthy jawbone available to support the endosteal implant.
Steps to Insert a Full Mouth Dental Implant
A full mouth dental implant involves multiple steps and can take around 3 to 9 months to be completed.
Evaluation
The first step is the assessment of the jawbone that will help determine the type of procedure. Dental imaging studies such as X-rays, panoramic films, and/or CT scans are examined by the dentist. A full mouth dental implant is usually an outpatient procedure and may be done under local or general anesthesia.
Placing the implant
If an existing damaged tooth is present, it is extracted before the placement of the implant. Holes are then drilled deep into the bone for an endosteal implant, after which four implants are positioned into the jawbone. For a subperiosteal implant, the jawbone is not drilled, and the implant is placed on or above the bone. After the placement of the dental implants, the healing phase begins, and this can take between two to six months. During this time, new bone grows and strengthens around the screw to function as the artificial tooth’s root.
Abutment placement
An abutment is a small connector post that is attached to the implant. This serves to hold the replacement tooth called a crown. The gums are then allowed to heal for a couple of weeks.
Placing the teeth
After the placement of the abutment, the dentist will take an impression of it so that your replacement teeth can be made to fit. The replacement teeth can be either fixed or secured with a screw to the abutment to give you a better smile and a natural look.
Cost of a Full Mouth Dental Implant
A full mouth dental implant offers long-lasting results, and this is one of the reasons why it costs more than other dental procedures. The total cost of the procedure also varies depending on several factors, such as those listed below.
Location
The location of the dental office can affect the pricing of dental implants. Implants that are done in a major city typically cost more than those done in a smaller town or suburb.
Materials used for the dental implants
The type of material used for the dental implants will also impact the total cost of the procedure. Titanium, zirconium, and other materials are priced differently and can have an impact on the overall cost.
The expertise of the dentist
Dentists with not much experience in dental implants would charge less than more experienced ones. But going to an experienced dentist will ensure the implants are done safely and correctly. There would also be a lower risk of complications.
The estimated overall cost of full mouth dental implants could range from $30000 to $70000. Dental implants are usually not covered by dental insurance, unlike bridges and dentures. So, it is advisable to check with your insurance provider if you can expect any coverage.
Dental implants have a high success rate, making this procedure a favored option for tooth replacement. Restore your smile and improve your oral health by getting your missing teeth replaced with dental implants.
