Common questions

Full arch implant treatment replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw with a fixed bridge supported by a small number of implants, usually four to six. It may be considered when most or all teeth are missing or can’t be saved. It involves surgery and a restorative phase, and suitability is decided after a full clinical assessment.

A denture rests on the gums and is taken out for cleaning. A full arch bridge is fixed to implants in the jaw, so you don’t remove it. It still needs daily cleaning and regular professional maintenance. Dentures and implant-retained overdentures remain good options for some people, and we’ll discuss them with you.

These names describe similar approaches: a full arch bridge supported by a small number of implants, often with provisional teeth fitted soon after surgery. All-on-4® is a registered trademark of Nobel Biocare. Your clinician will explain exactly what is planned for you.

Age on its own doesn’t decide suitability. We see adults across a wide range of ages, including younger people with failing teeth after trauma, earlier dental work or a genetic condition. Your general health, bone, gums and ability to look after the bridge matter more than age. Research has found implant loss somewhat more likely in people over 65, which your clinician will take into account ^R1.

Sometimes. Angling some implants can make use of the bone you have, and where bone is limited, grafting or other approaches such as zygomatic or pterygoid implants may be options. Your 3D scan shows what’s realistic. See Bone loss and complex cases.

Smoking increases the risk of infection and implant failure; implants in people who smoke have been found to fail at roughly twice the rate of those in non-smokers ^R4. We’ll talk honestly about this and ask you to stop before and after surgery, ideally for good, and we’ll support you to do that.

Often, with careful planning. Well-controlled diabetes is usually manageable. Blood thinners and some osteoporosis and cancer medicines need specific planning, and we may work with your GP or specialist. Tell us about all your medicines at your assessment.

We’ll tell you, and explain why. Other options, such as dentures, implant-retained overdentures, bridges or individual implants, may suit you better. Understanding that is a good outcome of an assessment.

Any failing teeth in the arch being treated are removed and the implants are placed. For one arch, surgery usually takes several hours. Where clinically appropriate, a fixed provisional bridge is fitted on the day or within a few days. If you have sedation or a general anaesthetic, you’ll need an adult to take you home.

Surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, with or without sedation, or under general anaesthesia in an appropriate facility. The options available depend on your health and on where your surgery is planned. Your clinician will confirm the approach, and any cost, before your surgery date.

Not always. A fixed provisional bridge needs the implants to be held firmly enough in the bone at surgery. Many people who are suitable have one fitted on the day or within a few days. If it isn’t appropriate for you, your clinician will explain the alternative before surgery.

The provisional bridge is designed for the healing period. The definitive bridge is made once healing is confirmed, typically several months after surgery. Definitive bridge options include acrylic teeth on a titanium framework and zirconia; each has advantages and trade-offs, and no material is right for everyone. Your quote states the material planned.

Teeth that are failing or causing disease in the arch being treated are usually removed at surgery. If a tooth is healthy and well positioned, your clinician will discuss whether it can be kept.

The area is fully numbed during surgery. Afterwards, most people have swelling, bruising and discomfort for several days. Pain relief and instructions are provided, and most people find it settles substantially within the first week, though everyone’s experience differs.

Many people take around a week. It depends on your work, your treatment and how you heal. A medical certificate can be provided.

You’ll start with soft foods and move gradually towards your normal diet over the healing period. You’ll be given a written diet plan.

Not if you’ve had sedation or a general anaesthetic. You’ll need an adult to take you home and stay with you, usually for 24 hours.

Costs depend on what you need: one or both arches, the number of implants, any extractions or grafting, the bridge materials and the anaesthetic approach. After your assessment you’ll receive a written, itemised quote before you decide. See Fees and payment.

When you book, our team will confirm what your assessment includes and any fee that applies, before your appointment.

Some extras policies contribute towards parts of implant treatment. It depends on your policy, so check with your fund using the item numbers in your quote. Claims can be processed at the clinic where possible.

In limited circumstances, the Australian Taxation Office may approve early release of super on compassionate grounds for dental treatment. Strict conditions apply and it can significantly reduce your retirement savings. Please read the ATO’s information (opens in a new tab) and seek independent financial advice first ^R13.

Implants have a well-established long-term record, but no outcome is guaranteed ^R1R2. The bridge will need maintenance, repairs are common over time, and it may eventually need to be remade ^R3. How long treatment lasts depends on your health, oral hygiene, habits such as grinding, and keeping up with reviews.

Implant failure is a known risk. If an implant doesn’t integrate or develops a problem later, your clinician will explain the options and any costs before anything is done.

Yes, and we encourage it. Ask us for copies of your imaging, treatment plan and quote to take to another clinician.

A list of your medicines, any recent dental X-rays or scans, and your questions. You’re welcome to bring a support person.