Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: four minutes.
If you are missing most or all of your teeth, full arch dental implants offer a stable, natural-looking solution that can restore both your smile and your confidence.
In this blog, you will learn what full arch dental implants are, how they work, who they are for, and what to expect from implant treatment.
Table of Contents
- What Are Full Arch Dental Implants?
- Benefits of Full Arch Dental Implants
- What to Expect from the Full Arch Implant Process
- Why Choose Young Dental SF Group for Full Arch Implants
- Schedule a Full Arch Implant Consultation in San Francisco
- FAQs About Full Arch Dental Implants
Key Takeaway
Full arch dental implants are a permanent, natural-looking solution for patients missing most or all teeth. At Young Dental SF Group in San Francisco, Dr. Matthew Young provides expert care using advanced techniques to help you restore your oral health.
What Are Full Arch Dental Implants?
Full arch implants replace an entire upper or lower set of teeth using 4 to 6 dental implants. Instead of placing one implant per tooth, this technique anchors a custom prosthetic to a few strategically placed implant posts. This provides full chewing power and a natural appearance with fewer implants and less recovery time.
One well-known option is the All-On-4® system. It uses four or more implants to support a full row of teeth. This method works well for people who have lost all their teeth or have low bone density, since it spreads pressure evenly across the jaw. While the upfront cost may be higher than other options, it offers a long-lasting, stable solution that helps protect your bone and restore full function.
Candidates For Full-Arch Dental Implants
Full arch solutions are best for patients who need to restore an entire upper or lower jaw. You may be a candidate for full arch dental implants if:
- You are missing most or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
- You wear removable dentures and want a more stable, fixed solution.
- You have severe decay, bone loss, or gum disease that has damaged most teeth.
- You want to avoid traditional dentures and their discomfort, slipping, or adhesives.
If you are unsure, our dental implant specialists can evaluate your jawbone and oral health to recommend the best tooth replacement options for you.
Benefits of Full Arch Dental Implants
Full-arch restoration offers many long-term advantages for patients in San Francisco:
- Fixed solution: The implants stay securely in place, so there is no need to remove them for cleaning or sleeping.
- Natural appearance: Each prosthetic is custom-designed to match the look of your natural teeth.
- Improved speech and chewing: Full arch implants restore stability and bite strength, making it easier to eat a wide variety of foods without discomfort. They also help you speak clearly by keeping your teeth securely in place, unlike loose dentures that can slip or shift.
- Prevents bone loss: The implants stimulate your jawbone, which helps preserve bone density over time.
- Long-lasting: With regular care and dental checkups, your implants can last for decades.
What to Expect from the Full Arch Implant Process
When performed at Young Dental SF Group, full arch dental implant treatment follows a detailed, patient-focused process that uses advanced techniques.
- Comprehensive Consultation
We assess your oral health, bone volume, and goals using digital imaging and a CBCT scan. Your initial consultation includes a full discussion of treatment options such as implant-supported dentures or All-on-4 dental implants.
- Treatment Planning
Your surgeon will create a custom surgical and restorative plan tailored to your needs.
- Implant Surgery
During surgery, we place 4, 6 or 8 implants into the jawbone. You may receive a temporary fixed bridge or temporary teeth the same day, allowing you to maintain oral hygiene and function during the healing period.
- Healing and Integration
Over a period of 3 to 6 months, the implants fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration.
- Final Prosthesis
Once healing is complete, we attach your permanent restoration. It looks and functions like natural teeth, restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile naturally.
Why Choose Young Dental SF Group for Full Arch Implants
Dr. Matthew Young is a recognized leader in implant dentistry and the current President of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). He mentors other providers and helps set national standards for care.
At Young Dental SF Group, we use cutting-edge tools to ensure predictable outcomes:
- 3D imaging and guided surgery for accuracy and safety
- Cone beam CT scans for precise diagnostics
- In-house lab collaboration to ensure prosthetic teeth meet your aesthetic goals
Learn more about Dr. Young: Why San Francisco Patients Trust Dr. Matthew Young for Dental Implants
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of full-arch dental implants varies depending on the number of implants per arch, whether preparatory procedures like bone grafting are needed, and your selected implant treatment plan.
We provide a detailed estimate after your consultation and offer:
- Flexible financing plans
- Insurance pre-authorizations
- Transparent pricing
Schedule a Full Arch Implant Consultation in San Francisco
If you are missing most or all of your teeth, full-arch dental implants can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. From your initial consultation to final prosthetic placement, Dr. Young delivers predictable, long-lasting results.
To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, CA, today at (415)-392-8611. Visit us at 490 Post Street Suite 830, San Francisco, CA.
FAQs About Full Arch Dental Implants
From initial consultation to final prosthesis, the process can take anywhere from 4 to 12 months depending on your overall health and whether or not you need additional procedures such as bone grafting.
We provide a temporary prosthetic so you can eat and smile with confidence throughout recovery.
It is possible for a smoker to get full arch implants, however, you are required to quit smoking for a time before and after surgery. Smoking greatly increases the risk of infection and implant failure.
The procedure is done using dental sedation, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Some discomfort is normal after the surgery but most patients report that it is no worse than having a tooth extracted.