Good decisions need balanced information. This page summarises what published research shows, the risks of treatment, and what recovery and long-term care involve.
A 2019 systematic review of prospective studies estimated that about 96% of dental implants were still in place after 10 years. When the authors allowed for patients lost to follow-up, the estimate was about 93%, and implant loss was more likely in people aged 65 and over. These figures relate to individual implants of many kinds, not specifically to full arch treatment R1.
Long-term studies from the clinic that developed the four-implant approach reported that about 99% of lower-jaw bridges remained in function after up to 18 years, and about 93% of implants survived. Many patients were not followed for the full period, and results from a single, highly experienced centre may not reflect results elsewhere R2.
In carefully selected patients, reviews have found similar implant survival whether a fixed bridge is attached within a week of surgery or after a longer healing period R6. Not everyone is suitable for this approach.
Studies of people without teeth have found greater improvements in oral health-related quality of life with implant-supported teeth than with conventional dentures. Both fixed bridges and implant-retained overdentures can work well; the better choice depends on the person R9R10.
Full arch treatment is surgery. Your clinician will explain the risks that apply to you before you decide. They include:
An implant may fail to integrate with the bone, or be lost later. Smoking increases this risk: implants in people who smoke have been found to fail at roughly twice the rate of those in non-smokers R4. Poorly controlled diabetes, some bone medicines, radiotherapy and gum disease can also increase risk.
Inflammation around implants is common. A systematic review estimated that peri-implant mucositis (gum inflammation) affected around four in ten patients and peri-implantitis (inflammation with bone loss) around one in five, with wide variation between studies R5. Good home care and regular professional maintenance help reduce this risk.
Full arch bridges are under constant load, and technical problems build up over time. In one systematic review, fewer than one in three full arch bridges were free of any complication five years after fitting. The most common problems were chipping or fracture of the bridge material and screw problems R3. Grinding your teeth increases the risk; a night guard may be recommended R12.
Swelling, bruising and discomfort are usual and tend to peak in the first two to three days. Pain relief and written instructions are provided. If you have sedation or a general anaesthetic, you must not drive for at least 24 hours.
Most people find discomfort settles substantially within the first week. Many take around a week off work; it depends on your work and your treatment. A medical certificate can be provided.
You’ll start with soft foods and move gradually towards a normal diet over the healing period, following a written plan.
Your speech may feel different for a short time while you adapt to the new teeth.
Contact your clinic straight away if you have heavy bleeding, increasing pain or swelling after the third day, fever, or if your bridge feels loose.
Daily cleaning around the bridge with a soft brush, interdental brushes and, if recommended, a water flosser; regular reviews and professional cleaning; X-rays as advised; and prompt attention to any loose or chipped teeth. Keeping up with maintenance is one of the most important things you can do for the long-term health of your implants.