An interview with...

This technique was developed to provide patients who had experienced total tooth loss with a life changing treatment using only four dental implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. Two of the implants are placed vertically in the front of the jawbone with the remaining two implants positioned at an angle of up to 45° placed towards the back of the mouth but anchored in much better quality bone found towards the front of the jawbone. Tilting the implants also helps the Implant Dentist avoid vital structures, the sinuses and nerves.

Other fixed full arch dental implant techniques require 6-10 implants with a period of healing time and the bridge cannot be fixed to the implants. Extensive bone grafting for implant placement may also be required.

With the techniques we use at United Smile Centres, the bone to implant contact can be optimised and the need for any bone grafting is minimised. Also, the configuration and position of the implants along the jawbone, once braced together with the Titanium framework, helps to spread the forces transmitted from the teeth to the jawbone also allowing for better distribution of biting forces from a full arch of replacement teeth.

The permanent teeth in a day concept uses the All-on-4™ implant system and is suitable for patients who want a more permanent solution than removable full dentures or do not want to go through the lengthy process of more traditional implant treatment. Generally, individuals that are also suitable for permanent teeth in a day are those that:

• Have been told that they do not have enough bone for dental implants
• Have failing crowns and bridges and a broken down dentition
• Suffer from unstable and loose dentures that affect their ability to live life to the full
• Suffer from severe periodontal gum disease, loose teeth and tooth loss
• Suffer from loss of jawbone due to the loss of their teeth and long term denture wear

Often people are put off implant treatment because of the need for bone grafting and more extensive surgery. With the techniques we use at United Smiles, the need for any bone grafting is minimised so more people choose this treatment.

Firstly a patient would attend a consultation to meet our team of experts where they can ask any questions that they may have about dental implants and the treatment involved. We will also discuss their dental and medical history. If we feel the patient is a candidate for treatment and they wish to go ahead, then the patient will undergo a CT scan, imaging and diagnostics so that we can prepare a digital 3 dimensional image and a detailed plan of the procedure. This ensures a highly accurate, safe and predictable implant placement. A written treatment plan is provided. Also at this stage, patients can discuss the look of their new smile.

The patient will then attend their first appointment where the mouth is prepared according to our protocols and if required all remaining teeth extracted. A minimum of four dental implants are placed in the upper or lower jaw with the implants at the back of the mouth placed at an angle.

A provisional fixed acrylic arch of teeth will then be finalised and attached to the dental implants. After which the patient will be given time to rest in a relaxation area. Within a few hours they will be able to go home with a new smile and get on with their everyday life. Patients are also required to attend pre and post-operative consultations and reviews.

3-6 months later

After approximately three to six months and once the dental implants are fully integrated into the jaw, a final fixed bridge of permanent teeth will be fitted by the Implant Dentist.