Full arch dental implant FAQs

Full arch implant treatment uses several implants to support replacement teeth across an upper or lower jaw. A fixed bridge stays in place for daily use. The assessment considers your remaining teeth, jawbone, health and the alternatives available.

All-on-4 is one approach to full arch treatment that uses four implants to support replacement teeth in one jaw. Full arch treatment is the broader term, and other plans may use a different number of implants. The appropriate approach depends on assessment.

No. Depending on your remaining teeth and their condition, options may include treatment to retain teeth, replacing individual teeth or a removable denture. Ask why a particular option is recommended and what its risks, costs and care requirements involve.

Suitability for full arch implants depends on your health, jawbone, gums, bite, remaining teeth, denture history and treatment goals. A clinical assessment is needed to determine which options may suit you.

Age alone does not determine suitability. Your health, medications and ability to heal are considered as part of a clinical assessment.

Limited bone does not always rule out treatment, but it may change the plan. Further assessment, treatment in stages, bone grafting or referral may be needed.

Some patients may be suitable for fixed temporary teeth on the day of surgery. This depends on bone support, implant stability, bite, and health. Temporary teeth are not the final bridge. Ask what the plan would be if fixed temporary teeth cannot be fitted on the day.

Treatment involves assessment and planning, surgery, healing and fitting the final teeth. The time between stages varies, particularly if additional treatment is needed. Ask for a proposed schedule that distinguishes surgery, temporary teeth and the final bridge.

Temporary teeth are used during an earlier stage of treatment while healing and the treatment plan progress. The final bridge is fitted at a later stage when appropriate. Both need care, and temporary teeth may come with eating restrictions. Ask what applies to your proposed treatment.

Anaesthesia is used during implant placement. Some discomfort and swelling can occur afterwards. Ask which anaesthetic or sedation options are appropriate for you and what to expect during recovery.

Risks include infection, an implant not bonding with the bone and, depending on the implant position, nerve injury. The bridge or its components may also need repair or replacement. Your clinician should explain your individual risks and alternatives before you decide on treatment.

Your treatment team should give you eating instructions for the healing period and any temporary teeth. These may include a modified diet. Ask when you can move to different foods, and follow the advice for your own treatment rather than assuming fixed teeth allow an immediate return to your usual diet.

Time away from work depends on the surgery, anaesthetic or sedation used, your recovery and the demands of your job. Discuss work, driving and any support needed at home before treatment so you can plan around the advice you receive.

Costs depend on treatment in one or both jaws, any extractions or additional procedures, and the temporary and final teeth required. Ask what the quote includes and what maintenance may cost.

In limited circumstances, you may be able to apply to the ATO for early release of superannuation on compassionate grounds for eligible dental treatment. Approval is separate from your clinical assessment and is not guaranteed.

Ask whether the quote covers assessment and scans, extractions, implant surgery, temporary teeth, the final bridge and review appointments. Check what may be additional, including future maintenance, repairs or replacement components. Request clarification before deciding on treatment.

There is no guaranteed lifespan. The implants and the teeth they support need ongoing cleaning and review, and the bridge or its components may need repair or replacement. Your clinician can explain the factors that affect longevity in your case.

The implants and bridge need daily cleaning and regular professional review. Ask your clinician to show you how to clean around and beneath the bridge and which tools suit its design. Follow the review schedule recommended for your mouth, even when the teeth feel comfortable.