Tooth loss is a serious problem that people have been trying to solve for many years. Loss of all, or even just a single tooth (especially a front tooth) in the upper or lower jaw can influence a person's appearance, self-confidence, and social life. If, after a tooth is lost, no treatment is done for a long time, bone loss begins, and in cases of severe bone loss, it may not be possible to fix the damage done and to restore normal chewing function. The most effective method of treating tooth loss is implant placement. There is a myth that it is always very complex, long, and very expensive. During consultation, your dentist will create an optimal treatment plan for you.
What are the possible solutions for losing many or all teeth?
There are two possible solutions: the old one, a plastic removable denture, and the modern one, implant-supported restorations. In both cases, the new teeth will perform all functions, but patient comfort is incomparable. Patients with implant-supported restorations feel like with their own natural teeth, they do not have to worry about the teeth coming out of the mouth, as sometimes happens with a conventional denture. It is also important to note that there is no gagging due to the denture, and implant-supported restorations do not impede the sense of taste. Usually, all teeth in a single jaw can be restored using 2, 4, 6 or 8 implants, which support a restoration with 12 or 14 perfect-looking teeth.
Mini-implant-supported removable denture
When a large amount of bone is lost, small-diameter (around 2 mm) implants are suitable. They act as a support so that the dentures stay in place. Temporary prostheses may be provided immediately after implant placement. This way allows us to avoid bone augmentation, which is often necessary for regular implants, therefore it is an economical way to have well-fitting removable dentures. They create good aesthetics and are easy to maintain.
Removable single arch denture on 2 to 4 implants
The removable denture if secured on 2 to 4 implants using special components called locators. The denture is manufactured from modified plastic or titanium and plastic. Compared to conventional removable dentures, these prostheses are a lot more secure, cover less of the palate and practically do not cause gagging. This denture is easy to maintain, as it is cleaned out of the mouth. It has excellent aesthetics.
Fixed single arch prosthesis on 4 to 6 implants
For patients who do not want a removable denture, a fixed, implant-supported prosthesis on 4 to 6 implants (sometimes up to 8 implants). The number of implants depends on the patient’s anatomy. The minimum number of implants is 4. Before implant placement, a thorough examination using 3D computed tomography and other examinations is performed and the treatment is planned. Temporary prostheses may be provided immediately after implant placement. The final prostheses can be made of Metal-reinforced plastic, porcelain fused to metal, or full-ceramic zirconia restorations. Such prosthesis imitates natural teeth as best as possible, guarantees the best chewing efficiency and good aesthetics.